By Pritesh Kamble
In a groundbreaking stride towards fostering equality, dignity, and inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community, Snehotsavam 2K25 unfolded as a historic event in Kannur, Kerala on February 22, 2025. CYDA Kerala in collaboration with Snehatheeram Charitable Society, organised this vibrant gathering which drew 256 participants, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, social activists, healthcare professionals, political leaders, academics, and students. More than just an event, Snehotsavam 2K25 became a beacon of hope—igniting conversations, amplifying voices, and laying the groundwork for long-overdue systemic change.
A Platform for Dialogue, Awareness, and Change
At the heart of Snehotsavam 2K25 was the unconditional goal of creating a safe, visible, and inclusive platform where the concerns, aspirations, and struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community could take center stage. Through panel discussions, interactive sessions, and expert talks, the event fostered meaningful dialogue on critical issues affecting the community—from government welfare schemes to healthcare access, political representation, and social acceptance.
Spotlight on Government Support
Biju P, Social Justice Officer of Kannur, opened the floor by shedding light on existing government programs aimed at advancing education, employment, and dignity for LGBTQIA+ individuals. While these initiatives exist on paper, Biju stressed the urgent need for effective implementation, with clear mechanisms to bridge policy promises with on-ground realities. His candid address sparked discussion on how administrative willpower, combined with civil society collaboration, could accelerate tangible outcomes.
Healthcare: Beyond Tokenism to True Inclusion
The need for inclusive healthcare resonated strongly throughout the event. Dr. Jayshree from Periyar Ayurveda Medical College brought to light the stigma and bias LGBTQIA+ individuals face when accessing healthcare services. From subtle prejudice to outright denial of care, these discriminatory experiences lead to severe health inequities. Dr. Jayshree called for comprehensive sensitization programs for medical professionals, ensuring that every patient—regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation—receives respectful, non-judgmental care.
A Call for Political Representation
“Without representation, there is no recognition.” This sentiment echoed in the address by Dr. J.J. Pathaly, retired professor from Mahatma Gandhi University. He highlighted the glaring absence of LGBTQIA+ voices in governance structures—at local, state, and national levels. Dr. Pathaly underscored that political participation is not just symbolic but essential for shaping policies that impact the community. His call to action urged LGBTQIA+ individuals to step into leadership roles, advocating for themselves within the political sphere.
Community Support: Beyond Awareness to Acceptance
Awareness alone cannot dismantle prejudice—a message powerfully delivered by Dr. Sajid, State Coordinator of CPIM Kerala. Dr. Sajid emphasized that active allyship is crucial to reducing stigma and fostering genuine social acceptance. Whether through educational outreach, workplace inclusion policies, or local support networks, solidarity from all sections of society is necessary to dismantle entrenched biases and stereotypes.
The Long Road to Inclusion: CYDA’s Journey in Kannur
Despite Kerala’s progressive strides in LGBTQIA+ rights, Kannur presented a unique challenge—bringing the community together under one unified platform. When CYDA first approached the Social Justice Officer with the idea of hosting Snehotsavam 2K25, the response was met with skepticism. “Kannur’s LGBTQIA+ community is fragmented and invisible,” they were told. But CYDA saw an opportunity where others saw obstacles.
Armed with trust-building strategies and a deep commitment to grassroots engagement, CYDA launched a one-on-one outreach campaign, directly connecting with LGBTQIA+ individuals across Kannur. By fostering safe spaces for open dialogue and understanding, CYDA won the community’s trust—a trust that became the foundation for the Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP), held just a week before Snehotsavam 2K25.
This pioneering EDP welcomed 40 LGBTQIA+ participants, equipping them with essential entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and confidence to pursue self-employment. The success of this initiative prompted the Social Justice Officer to publicly acknowledge:
“CYDA is the first organization to successfully unite Kannur’s LGBTQIA+ community under one roof.” This recognition was more than a commendation—it was a testament to the transformative power of inclusive engagement.
A Milestone of Recognition and Impact
The historic nature of Snehotsavam 2K25 was further amplified when Snehatheeram Charitable Society, a leading organization providing healthcare services under NACO and KSACS, presented CYDA with a prestigious trophy—a symbol of recognition for CYDA’s unwavering commitment to LGBTQIA+ empowerment in Kerala. The event was not just about celebration; it catalyzed conversations that had long been suppressed. Discussions around legal protections, educational opportunities, job security, mental health support, and anti-discrimination policies all took center stage—planting seeds for sustainable change.
A Movement in the Making
Snehotsavam 2K25 was not an endpoint—it was a beginning. The resounding success of this initiative has placed CYDA at the forefront of LGBTQIA+ advocacy in Kerala. By amplifying marginalized voices, building community confidence, and paving pathways to economic independence, CYDA is crafting a new narrative—one that celebrates diversity, promotes equity, and demands justice.
The Kannur experience serves as a blueprint for LGBTQIA+ inclusion—one that can and must be replicated across other districts, states, and communities. Through persistent advocacy, innovative programs, and unwavering solidarity, CYDA is dismantling systemic barriers and forging a future where every individual—regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation—can thrive with dignity.
A Legacy of Hope and Inclusion
As the sun set on Snehotsavam 2K25, it left behind not just memories, but a legacy—a promise that the voices raised, the stories shared, and the commitments made would echo long after the event ended. With each step forward, CYDA is proving that inclusion is not an abstract ideal—it is a tangible, achievable reality. In Kannur, the barriers are breaking, and a more inclusive tomorrow is taking shape.
(The author is Program Manager, Inclusion Project at CYDA)
