In times like 2022, one would expect more inclusivity of different genders and identities and fewer hindrances for the LGBTQI+ community, given that the world has come together to voice against the stereotypical norms.

The actual picture turns out to be a bit different. Saisha Shinde, the first transgender fashion designer in India, was turned down for a blood donation due to her identity.

Saisha revealed that she got a call midway reaching there that she can’t donate her blood because of some medical guidelines. She mentioned, “As per those laws there are certain kind of people who cannot donate blood.”

To elaborate, Saisha added, “People who are in the high-risk category of illnesses. Which is why transgenders, gay men, and lesbians cannot donate blood. Apparently, we come in those category of carrying STDs.

The irony is two years ago I donated my blood but now because my identity has changed I cannot donate blood. As if my blood has changed. But it’s not. I could be carrying those diseases as a gay man. It is beyond discriminatory.”


Read more: SC Asks Govt. Why The Transgender Community, Gay Men Are Barred From Donating Blood


She narrates the irony of the situation as this incident took place during Pride month which is all about celebrating all identities, not repressing any.

The designer is also disheartened by the fact that transgender visibility increases during the Pride month with interviews from various brands and channels, collaborations and projects flooding in but the intensity of awareness does not last throughout the year.

She added, “It is sad because everyone wants to talk about how inclusive we are or how we have made collections inspired by pride. But how much of that is actually benefitting the community. No one’s taking the accountability of that”.

It is truly a shame how regressive the society and the law could get, especially in today’s world!


Image Credits: Google Images

Feature Image designed by Saudamini Seth

Sources: TOI, Republic World, Real Time India

Find the blogger: @SreemayeeN

This post is tagged under: blood donation LGBTQ, denied right, Discrimination, india, law, LGBTQIA+, lgbtqia+ community, pride, Pride Month, transgender woman, saisha shinde, indian designer

Disclaimer: We do not hold any right, copyright over any of the images used, these have been taken from Google. In case of credits or removal, the owner may kindly mail us.


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