The project was implemented in response to a tragic incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, where a transgender woman, Alisha, was shot and later died after delays in medical treatment caused by uncertainty over whether she should be placed in a male or female ward. The initiative aimed to promote cultural diversity, inclusion, and active community participation in fostering interfaith dialogue and social harmony at the local level.
In the Pakistani context, the transgender community had often been marginalised and excluded from mainstream discourse, with limited recognition of their rights and lived experiences. The project sought to challenge these perceptions by creating space for open dialogue and engagement with members of the community.
On 30 May 2016, Laiqa Dilip and her colleague Aisha Rizwan visited a transgender community settlement to facilitate a safe and respectful conversation on interfaith harmony and social inclusion. Discussions focused on the challenges faced by transgender individuals, including their livelihoods, lifestyles, and access to education. The visit was followed by an iftar gathering, symbolising shared humanity and reinforcing the importance of inclusion and acceptance.
The engagement provided an opportunity for meaningful exchange and reflection, highlighting the resilience and lived realities of transgender individuals. Participants were deeply moved by the experiences shared, reinforcing the importance of recognition, dignity, and acceptance as essential foundations for an inclusive and compassionate society.