Sathyasri Sharmila: Breaking Barriers and Paving the Way for Transgender Rights in India
Sathyasri Sharmila: Breaking Barriers and Paving the Way for Transgender Rights in India In a historic moment for transgender rights in India, Sathyasri Sharmila became the first openly transgender person to enroll as an advocate with the Bar Council of Kerala on September 9, 2020. This achievement was a significant milestone for the transgender community, which has long faced discrimination and marginalization in India. Sharmila was born in the village of Kothagudem in the state of Telangana, and was assigned male at birth. She realized at a young age that she identified as a woman, and began to express her gender identity by wearing feminine clothes and makeup. However, her family and community did not accept her identity, and she faced ridicule and discrimination as a result. Despite these challenges, Sharmila was determined to pursue her dreams and fight for transgender rights. She completed a degree in law from Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University, and went on to work as a...