‘It represents our community and will continue’: Transpersons hold ‘Scrap Fest’ in Karachi

Transgender persons in Karachi organised the 'Scrap Fest' on Saturday.

Speaking on the occasion, prominent trans activist Shahzadi Rai dispelled misconceptions surrounding the controversial festival, billed as an LGBTQ event. She also criticised the cancellation of the NOC for holding the festival by municipal authorities in Lahore.

This festival, designed to celebrate the trans artists, ignited a passionate debate on social media, with opposing views and calls for a ban. 

As Scrap Fest approached, religious groups in Pakistan took to social media, condemning the event as 'immoral' and contrary to Pakistani values.

Following the celebration of Scrap Fest in Karachi, Shahzadi Rai shared her speech on Instagram, in which she emphasised the wrongful targeting of the transgender community.

"We've gathered for Scrap Fest today, showcasing our talent and art. I question: What issues do you have with us? What wrong have we done? This event represents our community and will persist. Despite claims that it is organised to promote a specific sexuality and violates the constitution of Pakistan, it's not; you can watch our live performances. Dancing at your events is acceptable, but when we do it for ourselves, you label it illegal," asserted Rai.

"Paid hate campaigns were launched to instigate people against us, and unfortunately, many are swayed by these campaigns, which negatively impacts the lives of transgenders who beg on the streets or perform at dance functions. It is disheartening to witness the manipulation of religion and the distribution of certificates. These misconceptions needs to be eradicated,” she continued.

Shahzadi Rai revealed that she faced death threats before the event.

"People bullied me, spread misinformation, and hurled abuses at my parents and me. No religion permits it. The state has never truly valued or respected our community," she added.

The trans activist highlighted that the patriarchal mindset expects conformity to its hypocritical attitudes by the Khawaja Sara community, adding that no religion permits maligning anyone.

Shahzadi further stated that the transgender community's cultural identity and artistic endeavours deserve to be respected and nurtured, not suppressed.