Thai-Indian LGBTQ+ activist and transgender man Shane Bhatla co-founded the Student Empowerment and Equality Network (SEEN) to develop a network of schools where children could communicate freely and openly. He is also a performer and video producer and is working toward hosting queer weddings in Thailand.

Can you recall a moment when you felt LGBTQ+ rights were progressing in Thailand?
I have a lot of moments where I genuinely feel proud of the community here and want to highlight local efforts. But the moment that did it for me was when LGBTQ+ issues started to be discussed in schools [editor’s note: Bhatla prefers the initialism LGBTIQ+]. I think it is so important to normalize queer relationships, and hearing kids from a young age does that and has proven to improve the overall mental health of students.

What is Thailand doing right and wrong with regard to LGBTQ+ rights?
Thailand is not the ideal place to be an LGBTQ+ individual. However, the fact that we are now talking about queer issues socially and in a much higher political level is a good sign. If you’re a young desi queer kid, you’re not alone. I’ll be your big brother. You are special, you are incredible, you are so fabulous. Never let anyone tell you otherwise.

How can we improve?
Remember that Pride is a riot. It was started by trans women of color. We only get to celebrate pride now because of them, Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson. But also don’t forget: we don’t get to fully celebrate until all our siblings do. The fight isn’t over.

How challenging is it to organize LGBTQ+ events in Bangkok?
I think it’s difficult to host queer events, and it’s mentally draining for me, because of the horrible comments we get from homophobic people. But overall it’s a great experience and I feel very content knowing that I can help provide a safe space for the community. I’m looking forward to hosting more events in the future.

Read more here: https://issuu.com/bkmagazine/docs/bk_807_compressed/7