March 24, 2024 Bridge Team
8th Legal Awareness Workshop @Radisson Hotel
In a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and awareness, the BRIDGE to Equality project successfully convened its 8th Legal Awareness Program on March 23rd and 24th, 2024. This event, emblematic of the project’s dedication to advancing legal education and fostering equality, gathered legal practitioners for a two-day residential workshop, marking the second of its kind in the project’s second phase.
Under the guidance of esteemed experts, namely Dr. Janaki Vidanapathirana, Director of the National STD/AIDS Control Programme, and Dr. Ajith Rohana, Senior DIG and Attorney-at-Law, the program aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression within the framework of the law, particularly concerning the LGBTIQ community.
The program commenced with an inspiring opening address by Satya Ramanayake, the Project Manager of the BRIDGE TO EQUALITY PROJECT, underscoring the project’s scope and the pivotal role legal practitioners play in shaping an inclusive and equitable society. The inaugural session of the first day, conducted by Bhoomi Harendran, Executive Director of the National Transgender Network, focused on understanding SOGIE, followed by practical activities. Subsequent sessions, led by Dr. Janaki Vidanapathirana, delved into the medical and public health aspects of sexual orientation and gender identity, providing insights into gender expression, gender identity, and the health disparities faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals.
The second day centered on legal frameworks and rights, with Dr. Ajith Rohana leading discussions. Drawing from his expertise as a Senior DIG, Dr. Rohana elucidated the existing legal landscape surrounding sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Interactive sessions allowed participants to explore landmark cases, emerging legal trends, and evolving jurisprudence in this domain.
The workshop’s dynamic and participatory nature facilitated open dialogue and the exchange of ideas among legal practitioners. This collaborative environment enabled participants to share experiences, challenges, and best practices in handling cases related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
A notable outcome of the program was the reinforcement of an existing network of legal professionals committed to advancing LGBTQIA+ rights. Participants expressed a shared commitment to supporting members of the LGBTIQ community in addressing their issues.
In conclusion, participants were encouraged to apply the knowledge gained in their legal practices. The BRIDGE to Equality project emphasized the importance of translating awareness into action, advocating for legal reforms, and endeavoring to create a more inclusive legal system that upholds the rights of individuals irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
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