On September 4, 2023, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University’s New Law College Pune, in collaboration with the Gender Sensitization Cell, organized a seminar that delved into the realms of Gender Diversity and Inclusivity, with a special emphasis on LGBTQIA+ issues.
The seminar proved to be an interactive and enlightening session, with Shyam (Samuel) Konnur, the Founder of the Mist Foundation, taking the lead in initiating and conducting the event. Among those in attendance were Dr. Ujwala Bendale, the Dean & In-Charge Principal of New Law College, Dr. Jyoti Dharm, the Vice Principal, Dr. Rajlakshmi Wagh, Faculty In-Charge, and Divya Saxena, Faculty Coordinator of the Gender Sensitivity Cell.
Shyam Konnur, who has dedicated 15 years of his life to working in the field of LGBTQIA+ rights, passionately led the seminar. Throughout the event, law students from various classes actively participated, raising questions and sharing their thoughts, all of which were thoughtfully addressed by Shyam Konnur.
The seminar received unwavering support from Dr. Ujwala Bendale, the Dean & In-Charge Principal, and Dr. Jyoti Dharm, the Vice Principal. This initiative was spearheaded by Dr. Rajlakshmi Wagh, Faculty In-Charge, and Divya Saxena, Faculty Coordinator of the Gender Sensitivity Cell.
Shyam primarily focused on elucidating the distinctions between sex, gender, and sexuality, underlining the idea that individuals do not need to fully comprehend every aspect of a person’s gender or sexuality. Instead, he stressed the importance of accepting and respecting individuals for who they are. Shyam emphasized that treating every human being with equality, regardless of their sexuality or gender, is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and perfect world.
Dr. Ujwala Bendale, the Dean & In-Charge Principal of New Law College, expanded on how the role of a lawyer extends beyond litigation and corporate jobs. She highlighted the pivotal role that law students play in fostering a more inclusive society through their research efforts.
Dr. Bendale encouraged students to think critically and engage in research paper writing. She also disclosed that New Law College, Pune, intends to organize more such sessions in the future, providing students with opportunities for insightful discussions on Gender Diversity and Inclusivity. This seminar served as a platform for both education and reflection, furthering the cause of LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and understanding within the academic community.
