Bengaluru: It was a dream come true to meet such an inspirational man, who has enlightened millions of people with his character and knowledge, said well known transgender rights activist Akkai Padmashali, after she met former US president Barack Obama in New Delhi on Friday. Padmashali, a city-based activist was one among the hundreds of activists invited for the Town Hall, which was organised based on the theme ‘What it means to be an active citizen and make an impact’.
Padmashali said that it was a once in a life time opportunity. “When the mike was handed over to me to ask a question to Mr Obama, I wished the Obama Foundation a great success and told him how much I love him and he flashed a pleasant smile.”“My question to him was, how can I speak up in front of a society when I am a criminal under the Section 377? How can a marginalised individual like me raise the voice against the government? I am a transgender and has always faced discrimination, how can I be accepted?” Padmashali said.
She said Mr Obama’s reply was, "You are doing it right away by the way you are questioning me and you have found your voice. The people from marginalized section should bring out their opinion and express their life stories to inspire others. When you talk, everyone will start to recognize their own experiences with you and see the side of humanity.”Padmashali mentioned that his words have instilled hope in the entire transgender community to believe in themselves.
