31 March 2025
“The Church is called to come out of herself and to go to the peripheries, not only geographically, but also the existential peripheries: the mystery of sin, of pain, of injustice, of ignorance and indifference to religion, of intellectual currents, and of all misery.” says Pope Francis.
The essence of creating a world where everyone feels valued and respected and in response to the call of the Church, on March 31st 2025, the New Dawn Social Work Centre in Paramathy, Namakkal, Tamilnadu, India had the joy supof celebrating International Transgender Day. Over 150 transgender from across Namakkal District attended the event. The celebration began with the welcoming of guests through Kumbaarathi and the lighting of the Kuthuvillaku. With warmth and sincerity, Sr. Jeyrani, the Director of the New Dawn Social Work Centre welcomed everyone present. To celebrate and honour the spirit and resilience of the transgender community, a joyful cake-cutting ceremony followed.
Rev. Sr. Lourdhu Adaikalasamy, the Province Animator, presided over the function. In her speech, she encouraged celebrating diversity by fostering inclusivity of the transgender community. Dr. K. Aruna Nayak, the leader of the transgender community in Namakkal, the speaker of the day, emphasized the need for government recognition of the transgender community, including implementing schemes to uplift young transgender individuals. The JPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation) commission of the province of Trichy also felicitated the transgender community.
To appreciate and acknowledge the talents and skills of transgender individuals in various fields, awards were presented. A highlight of the day was "Miss Namakkal" contest, witnessed the enthusiastic participation from a good number of personalities. Trans Kunthavai won the first place and was crowned as "Miss Namakkal 2025". Additionally, a "Queen of the Day" event was held, and Trans Thangamayil was declared as the winner. To support their livelihood, the centre provided welfare assistance to the transgender community.
The event featured vibrant cultural performances by the children from the New Dawn Social Work Centre and members of the transgender community, adding joy and colour to the celebration. The transgender shared their sentiments, expressing that they felt honoured, energized, rejuvenated, and valued.
The role of Master of Ceremonies was carried out by Sr. Anto, the coordinator and staff member. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Sr. Sudha, followed by a grand lunch. The celebration was attended by over 275 people, including priests, sisters, government officials, members of the press, and individuals from wider community.
Sr Jeyarani Periyanayagam
Province of Trichy