On November 9, the second Hijra Festival took place in Karachi. Organised by Kami Sid, Pakistan’s first transgender model, the event was held at Frere Hall. Sid’s mission with the festival was to raise awareness about the transgender community and to encourage societal acceptance. “Being transgender is not an insult,” she says, “we deserve the same rights and respect as anyone else.”

The Hijra Festival, a celebration of the transgender community’s identity, brings together people from across Sindh and beyond. Kami Sid emphasises the alienation transgender individuals often face from birth to death. Many are rejected by their families and communities. These festivals offer a rare platform for them to be seen and heard, allowing them to celebrate their identity in a society that typically does not.

Every November, the world comes together to celebrate Transgender Awareness Month. This year, Pakistani activist Kami Sid shared her thoughts on the significance of this month and the struggles faced by the transgender community in Pakistan.

“November is a time to remember those who have lost their lives due to violence and discrimination,” Kami Sid said. “We honour their memory and continue to fight for our rights.”

The theme for this year’s Transgender Awareness Month was “We Were, We Are, We Will Be.” Kami Sid emphasised the importance of recognising and respecting the transgender community. “It’s time for people to understand that we deserve respect and dignity,” she said.

In Pakistan, the transgender community faces numerous challenges, including discrimination, violence and marginalisation. Kami Sid said that there was a need for greater awareness and acceptance. “We want to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with the world and fight for our rights,” she said.