Voices of Inclusion: National Symposium on Gender Diversity at Carmel College
Celebrating the Spectrum
As part of its Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, in collaboration with the Goa State Commission for Women, hosted a National Symposium on Gender Diversity on 26th September 2024. The event was inaugurated by Principal Dr. Sr. Maria Lizanne A.C., who emphasized the unique role the college plays as the only women's college in Goa. The dais also welcomed GSCW representatives Ms. Ranjita Pai and Adv. Deepali Kare. Ms. Pai underlined the importance of gender sensitization and elaborated on the Commission’s ongoing interventions for marginalized communities, especially women. Dr. Brian Mendonca, convenor, introduced the symposium’s vision, and Dr. Glenis Mendonca delivered the vote of thanks. Ms. Roxana Singh compered the session.
A Keynote Grounded in Reality and Theory
Renowned academic and activist Dr. R. Raj Rao delivered the keynote address. He was felicitated by the Principal with a plaque. In his address, Dr. Rao explained the distinction between sex and gender, referencing Simone de Beauvoir and unpacking the LGBTQ++ spectrum in a clear and accessible manner. His second session focused on the texts My Beautiful Laundrette and Lihaf, contextualized within the framework of gender diversity. Both sessions sparked rich discussions, and Dr. Rao’s responses to audience questions were articulate and thought-provoking.
Art, Academia, and Expression Collide
The symposium saw participation from 107 delegates across institutions, who presented posters, research papers, poetry, performances, and personal testimonies. Eleven creative posters were displayed under the administrative block, with each student-artist explaining their interpretation of gender diversity. Performances included poems themed on LGBTQ+ experiences, student testimonies like ‘Love Has No Gender’, and a vibrant open mic session. A parallel faculty session held in the IQAC Conference Room featured eight paper presentations on topics like “Gender Diversity in Bihar” and “Gender Fluidity in Shakespeare’s Plays.”
Performative Power
The auditorium became a space of vibrant artistic expression through a dance-drama segment, including a play titled Juliet and Juliet, a mime, a fashion show on gender fluidity, and two dance pieces—all exploring gender identity and inclusivity. Simultaneously, a parallel student session in UGCR10 included academic paper presentations and video discussions that delved into various facets of gender diversity.
A Day of Dialogue and Discovery
This non-competitive, interdisciplinary symposium fostered inclusive dialogue, artistic exploration, and academic engagement with the evolving conversation around gender. It marked a significant step in Carmel College’s continued commitment to fostering understanding, awareness, and sensitivity through education and expression.
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