In a historic moment for both global asexual advocacy and Bangladeshi queer representation, Dipa Mahbuba Yasmin, the founder of the Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists (ANOAQA), took the stage at the Sydney WorldPride 2023. Her powerful presence marked a turning point for global asexuality awareness and impassioned advocacy. During her compelling address, Yasmin courageously spoke about the immense challenges confronted by asexual individuals in Asia, passionately advocating for an end to conversion therapy, hate crimes, and discriminatory practices.
Yasmin, radiating gratitude, remarked, “Such a privilege indeed and I am extremely grateful to have been part of a historic event.” She proudly shared that 2023 marked the first time a Bangladeshi speaker had graced the WorldPride stage. The joint booth, shared by Epiphania Visuals and ANOAQA, not only brought visibility to asexuality but also showcased Bangladeshi representation at this monumental event.
Yasmin’s keynote was woven with stories of the challenges faced by those coming out as asexual, particularly within the broader LGBTQ+ community where misunderstandings and marginalization can occur due to society’s hyper-sexualization. Her talk delved into a range of pressing issues:
One of the central themes of Yasmin’s talk was the experiences of coming out as asexual and the lack of acceptance within the broader LGBTQ+ community. This discussion touched on a range of pressing issues:
- The Struggle against Hyper-Sexualization: The asexual community’s struggle against hyper-sexualization within the LGBTQ+ movement is an ongoing challenge that requires the active support and understanding of all members of the community. By promoting education, inclusive representation, intersectional awareness, and collaboration, we can work together to create a more inclusive and diverse movement where all voices are heard and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation.
- The Plague of Conversion Therapy and Abuse: Conversion therapy, a deeply harmful and discredited practice, is a severe concern for asexual individuals. Yasmin’s advocacy focuses on raising awareness to stop this abusive and medically unsupported practice.
According to the ANOAQA survey, it has been observed that 1 out of every 3 individuals identifying as asexual has reported instances of being subjected to “conversion therapy.” During these experiences, derogatory terms like “frigid” or “impotent” are sometimes used to describe them. Additionally, some individuals have been compelled to undergo “sex therapy,” being treated as mental health patients with conditions like OCD or psychosexual disorders.
- Navigating Violence and Harassment: Yasmin shed light on the numerous forms of violence faced by asexual individuals, from intimate partner violence to physical threats and harassment.
Several ANOAQA surveys indicate that a significant portion of aggression directed towards asexual individuals originates from their own circle of friends. This is particularly evident when friends engage in discussions about sexual jokes, explicit content, or adult films, and an asexual person expresses discomfort or disagreement with such conversations. Such incidents are not confined to social settings alone; they also occur within workplace environments.
Numerous adolescent boys find themselves subjected to derogatory treatment due to their lack of sexual attraction towards any gender. Sadly, instances of such sex-related stigmatization are prevalent.
Among asexual individuals, men often experience heightened apprehension about revealing their asexuality, as they fear the potential backlash of being labeled as impotent or incapable.
The study additionally revealed that the primary source of violence against asexual women stems from their intimate partners and family members. Within the context of marriage, a significant amount of mistreatment and cruelty is reported, often originating from the extended family.
- Legal and Religious Discrimination: Yasmin highlighted the issues of legal discrimination, religious persecution, forced marriages (especially prevalent in South Asia), and the barriers to divorce, particularly among Muslim communities.
She point out, the concept of forced marriages is still prevalent in many Asian countries, disproportionately affecting girls in low-income families. These young women may be forced into marriages, where they may not be able to express their asexuality or have their identities respected.
Another distressing issue is the legal status of marital rape in many Asian countries. Marital rape remains legalized in some regions, denying asexual individuals the right to refuse sexual activity within their marriages, leading to a significant violation of their autonomy and bodily integrity.
Furthermore, divorce laws in certain Muslim countries can lead to increased spousal violence. When divorce is stigmatized or difficult to obtain, individuals, particularly women, may feel trapped in marriages, leading to situations where they are more likely to experience violence from their spouses. This lack of legal protection exacerbates the challenges faced by asexual individuals seeking to escape harmful relationships.
- Microaggressions and Discrimination: Microaggressions and other forms of discriminatory behavior are often faced by minority communities, further highlighting the need for education and awareness.
Yasmin’s work, not just as an activist but also as an artist, was showcased through her gallery, Epiphania Visuals, the world’s first A-Spec Queer Art Gallery. This exhibit provided a platform to introduce asexual diversity through her artwork, a critical step in making asexual identities visible and understood.
Yasmin expressed her gratitude for being a part of this historic event, which not only marked a milestone for her personal journey but also for the entire asexual and Bangladeshi communities. She used this platform to share her research and survey on Asexual Hate Crime in Bangladesh, amplifying the need for change and awareness on a global scale.
Yasmin’s activism is currently dedicated to raising awareness and advocating against conversion therapy. During her appearance on the WorldPride stage, she spoke passionately about her research and survey on Asexual Hate Crime in Bangladesh, shedding light on a deeply distressing issue and urging the world to take action.
As we reflect on this significant moment in LGBTQI+ history, it is essential to recognize the dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit of advocates like Dipa Mahbuba Yasmin. Her presence at WorldPride 2023 serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and accepting world, where the experiences of asexual, aromantic, and agender individuals are acknowledged, respected, and celebrated. It is through these brave voices that change is fostered, and a brighter, more compassionate future is envisioned for all members of the global LGBTQI+ community.
