As the founder of Hari TV, Lahiru Mudalige shared the journey and achievements of the platform, highlighting its innovative approach to digital media and its commitment to impactful storytelling.

The summit, organized by Suaradotcom and International Media Support (IMS), emphasized the importance of cross-border partnerships in navigating the ever-evolving media landscape. Hari TV’s participation reflects its role as a leader in the regional media industry, driving meaningful conversations and connections.

Langtou Village has a history of nearly 700 years. There are more than 300 well-preserved ancient buildings in the village. It is the largest preserved Lingnan characteristic village in Guangzhou. With the concerted efforts of the government, enterprises, and village collectives, Langtou Village has been revitalized and has become one of the brightest business cards showcasing the achievement of Guangdong rural villages development.

On August 24, Lahiru spoke on an international panel that explored multi-sectoral collaborations in creating public interest content. His insights reflected Hari TV’s commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and impact through media.

This milestone underscores Hari TV’s growing presence on the international stage and our dedication to meaningful storytelling that resonates across diverse audiences.

The “Face to Face” segment highlighted the following key issues:
* Practices and policies sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ community must be implemented to support their educational and career pursuits without hindrance or marginalization. This involves promoting attitudinal change and ensuring the recognition of their rights across households, schools, higher education institutions, public spaces, and the commercial sector.
* A fair taxation system is essential and should be designed to avoid negatively impacting individuals.
* Audiobooks need to be more widely available for blind students pursuing higher education at universities in Sri Lanka.
* Job opportunities for people with disabilities should be expanded.
* The use of Braille forms for casting votes should follow a consultative process involving all stakeholders.
* Citizens have responsibilities and duties to the state.
* With approximately 453,000 blind individuals in Sri Lanka, there must be discussions about the conditions faced by blind students in higher education and the implementation of a Braille voting system.
* What are the challenges faced by people with disabilities in securing livelihoods?
* What vocational training opportunities are available in Sri Lanka for people with disabilities?
* The quota of jobs offered to people with disabilities in the state sector should be increased from 3% to 10%.
* Individuals in wheelchairs can be employed as receptionists, and media should be inclusive and accommodate people with disabilities.
* There is a need for specialized banks to support the agriculture sector and entrepreneurs.

We have previously seen Ishara Sapumal and other individuals from the transgender community participating in various TV programs. However, today’s discussion focuses on the specific aspects of civil rights for the transgender and LGBTQ+ communities. Do they have civil rights in Sri Lanka?

While it might seem that this minority group is small, it is important to note that the visibility of this group is limited to those who are publicly outspoken. In addition, there is a significant presence of professionals from fields like medicine, law, engineering, computing, and business within the transgender community. Although this minority group might seem small when discussed, it is an integral part of society, and referring to it as a “minority” can sometimes obscure its significance.

What are the current civil rights issues facing this community, and what changes are needed in the future? How do legal conditions affect their personal lives? Can you discuss two rights related to this? One from the perspective of a transgender person and the other from a legal expert. With your knowledge and educational background, what are your views on these civil rights in Sri Lanka? Do you feel that civil rights have been achieved, or is there still a lack of civil freedom?

It’s challenging to simplify and explain such matters briefly because, in some contexts, the recognition of human rights and the granting of fundamental rights are achieved through individual advocacy. In such cases, our rights are protected through numerous instances where we act on an individual basis, whether through legal channels or other means. Regardless of the laws in place, the societal attitudes and beliefs significantly impact how these laws are applied. Despite the legal framework, many people face significant social challenges and discrimination. For example, during my university days, I experienced an issue when casting my vote. I went to the polling station, dressed as a male, but when I presented my ID, it was mistakenly assumed to be that of my sister, creating confusion. Such issues are not unique to Sapumal but are common in discussions with this community. We often encounter numerous challenges and gaps in understanding. It is crucial to discuss and address these issues openly through media and other platforms. We have been working on this for years through TV programs, highlighting various aspects of civil rights and the protection and challenges faced by the community. One major issue is how civil rights affect the personal lives of individuals in this community. They often face daily challenges due to not only legal limitations but also societal prejudices. Legal recognition of gender identity is a complex topic. For example, national identity documents and their alignment with an individual’s gender identity can be problematic. Sometimes, individuals face difficulties when their identity documents do not match their gender identity, which can affect their marriage rights and other legal matters.

The national birth registration program was introduced in Kalutara District in December, but its implementation and effectiveness across different regions are still under review. There are ongoing discussions about how to address these issues, including providing temporary identification documents to facilitate voting and other rights.

We have been in discussions with the Electoral Commission and other authorities about how to improve these processes. They have promised to act and provide solutions, such as issuing temporary IDs or implementing mobile registration systems. We are waiting to see how these measures will be executed and whether they will address the community’s needs effectively.

you have overcome many challenges, and since I have discussed these matters with you personally, I would like to ask: How do these challenges affect the education of the transgender or LGBTQ+ community, and how do they impact their civic and citizenship rights?

Some children message me saying, “Sir, I don’t feel like studying. I have a problem; it’s difficult for me to wear a uniform and go to school. It’s uncomfortable for me to wear this outfit and be among girls. I feel embarrassed and don’t want to learn.” In such cases, I try to explain that education is their gateway to a better future. I often say, “Education is your key to advancement.” There’s a saying: ‘The only treasure that can’t be stolen is knowledge.’

For instance, I tell them to wait until they turn 18. Until then, they are considered minors, and their decisions cannot be legally acted upon. We know that those under 18 are considered minors. Once they turn 18, they can make decisions about their gender identity. I advise them to endure until then. The societal pressures and psychological challenges they face are immense, especially if they are trans women, as society often imposes barriers.

A trans woman might face significant challenges but could still excel in various fields. For example, I know a child who, despite being a trans woman, is now working in a major company and can even repair a bike in minutes. This shows that despite the struggles, they can achieve great things.

Additionally, I would like to understand how these issues relate to education. Often, we hear and see stories in the media about various challenges faced by transgender individuals. Specifically, we know that if they miss out on education, especially higher education, it leads to economic issues and racism. The lack of basic education can significantly impact their ability to overcome these challenges. Missing out on education often creates obstacles that are hard to overcome later.

What are the consequences of missing out on education for these individuals? How does it affect their civil rights and their ability to access opportunities in the future?

The right to education is not fundamentally violated by law; however, as mentioned earlier, while there hasn’t been a formal legal breach, there is a significant human issue. For example, if a child has a problem attending a girls’ school, there is no practical way for that child to switch to a different outfit or attend school comfortably. If a child faces difficulties, counseling and support can be provided to help them through their educational journey. There is a proverb that says, the knowledge gained will remain even after thieves and enemies are gone.” As an example, I suggest that if a child is under 18, they should wait until they reach adulthood before making irreversible decisions about their gender identity. Until then, it is essential to support and guide them through their education and personal challenges.

Regarding advanced education, some students face significant challenges when choosing hostels or dealing with the requirements of their gender identity. They may encounter rejection or difficulties if they are required to live in conditions not aligned with their identity. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss and address these foundational issues within the educational and healthcare systems to ensure that transgender individuals have access to suitable facilities and support.

The issue of religion is also broad. In Sri Lanka, individuals have the freedom to follow any religion or belief. However, when it comes to civil rights, especially for transgender individuals, there can be challenges. Some religious groups may not accept or accommodate transgender individuals, leading to difficulties in marriage or other religious practices. It raises the question of whether one is defined by their religion or their humanity. In addressing these issues, it is essential to consider that individuals should not be confined by societal or institutional limitations. The challenge lies in ensuring that civil rights and access to necessary services, such as healthcare, are upheld. Transgender individuals may face obstacles in accessing hormone treatments and other medical needs, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. What is your idea about this ?

It is crucial to ensure that all individuals, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, can access the necessary services and support. This involves a comprehensive understanding of their needs and the implementation of inclusive policies.

As a Buddhist, I believe in the teachings of compassion and understanding. Everyone deserves respect and equal rights, regardless of their identity. Addressing these issues requires empathy and an approach that fosters inclusivity and support.

How special is it that what we know is that in Sri Lanka, the healthcare sector provides free services to any citizen. However, now, considering whether this is the case for the LGBTQ+ community and other groups within Sri Lanka, is there real freedom under the citizenship rights? Specifically, for transgender individuals, during the transition period and later, there are hormone needs. In some countries, many people faced significant difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Sri Lanka, how accessible is it to obtain the necessary medications or hormone treatments for transgender individuals? How well do these civic rights apply in providing such medical services?

I am going to America with this civil rights issue for a short time. In America, there used to be no rights for black people. Rights refer to a seat reserved to be occupied by others. For example, in buses, seats were reserved for white people, and Rosa Parks was asked to give up her seat for a white person. She refused to do so. This was in the 1950s. She refused to get up. When she didn’t comply, there was opposition, and then many black people gathered and protested against the bus system. This bus boycott lasted for 381 days.

In Sri Lanka, there is no freedom to go to hospitals; there is freedom. When we go to a hospital in Sri Lanka and sit in the front seats, we are told that we need to move to the back. This is often due to postal services and the specialization of doctors. The specialized doctors here are not like those abroad; we don’t have such doctors in Sri Lanka. The medical professors are the ones doing this. The issue of discrimination is connected to the examination of one’s condition, which is an embarrassment and criticism that leads to shame. However, the people themselves are not important to us. The most important thing is to get help for people who have cancer.

I called the Ragama Hospital and asked about solutions for the numerous questions and children there. I tried to contact the doctors using their personal phone numbers. The Supreme Court lists many people awaiting surgeries. We don’t have a full day for surgeries; we only have two days a month available for surgeries. They tell me they can’t give a date at least in the near future, and they can’t perform surgeries for children who don’t have money. The response I received was simple: people live, and rights are only demanded for survival.

I have never seen such conditions in places like garbage dumps. Hence, people live alone, and for those individuals, the conditions are difficult. Even after becoming a trans person, they are not provided with the necessary services or allowed to change clothes. The issue with the court documents, which I have obtained, is that there is no confirmation that their condition is properly handled. I brought a small court case that was a significant achievement in my professional life.

This complaint was about a child who had become a trans person and about the right to marry. The question was whether there is a right to marriage. We received an indirect answer to this question. People are asking if it’s important to find out whether someone’s gender has been altered in a specific way. This information might be crucial for someone hoping to have children, but not for those without such hopes.

Your court decision is a part of this case. Since this case is ongoing and has not been resolved yet, we cannot provide a clear answer. This case is public and accessible, and it is important to address it without revealing personal identities.

The case involves a complaint about a trans person’s spouse, who was legally married after completing all the required processes. My daughter, who is now a trans person, is still struggling with emotional blackmail from her parents. They are asking her to change her name and status, and she is not allowed to respond or make any changes.

The courts are working on this issue, and they are considering whether to make the process transparent. This involves investigating how the gender change has been legally handled and whether it conforms to the relevant legal standards.

Different professionals in society face various challenges regarding their civil rights. We hope to bring a series of programs about these issues to you. We believe it is our responsibility, as part of our social media and TV platforms, to address these matters and to take action on behalf of the public. Our commitment to this cause involves dedicating our time and creating programs to highlight these issues.so what do you think about this ?

Currently, there is a significant debate in Parliament about a bill on gender equality. The bill’s relevance and importance, especially in moments when civil rights are challenged, is a key topic of discussion. The Gender Equality Bill addresses issues related to people with different gender identities. The Supreme Court has considered whether this bill will change the constitution and allow us to provide consent for it. The Parliament has been reviewing public opinion on this matter, and there has been a petition and various arguments presented. Some of these arguments include technical flaws and legal issues that have caused some instances of public outcry.

The current situation is quite critical. Many children and individuals are facing severe hardships, and it is vital to address these issues effectively. There is a need to raise awareness among family health officers and parents about the importance of accepting children regardless of their gender identity. Ignoring these issues leads to various problems, and it is essential for any group or individual to speak out through media statements to address and resolve these challenges.

The ongoing societal issues are creating significant obstacles for the rights and services available to people. These include access to healthcare and the ability to live with dignity. We seek to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the necessary support and services without facing discrimination.

It is crucial to understand that rights are not just about existing but about living a quality and meaningful life. As per the updated 2023 regulations, there are legal provisions for recognizing parenthood and ensuring rights for those creating families through artificial methods. In the U.S., same-sex marriage has been legalized, reflecting a progressive legal stance that we need to consider.

We should reflect on why we are not advancing in this regard and why we fail to support fundamental human rights. We strive for a more humanitarian approach, free from hatred and discrimination, and honor everyone who stands for these values. Ultimately, I believe that understanding and embracing human rights and compassionate living will lead to a more inclusive society. Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to this cause and for striving to build a society that values and respects everyone equally.

What were the main challenges you faced after losing your vision, and how did you manage to overcome them?

Losing my vision suddenly in 2018 was a life-altering event that presented numerous challenges. Initially, I faced severe emotional and psychological distress. The abrupt loss of sight led to a profound mental health crisis, including severe depression and suicidal thoughts. The physical challenges were also significant; I struggled with mobility and required assistance for daily activities. My teachers at my mother’s school played a crucial role during this period. They provided not only academic support but also emotional encouragement. Their dedication helped me navigate these challenges, from adapting to a new way of living to continuing my education. Their support was instrumental in helping me complete my Ordinary Levels despite not being able to attend school regularly for a significant period.

 How did your visual impairment affect your educational journey, and what resources or methods did you use to complete your studies?

My visual impairment had a substantial impact on my educational journey. After losing my vision, I was unable to attend school regularly due to ongoing medical treatments, which resulted in missing out on a large portion of my education. During the final year of my studies, I was confined to home for five months and participated in only two term tests. To overcome these barriers, I utilized several specialized resources and methods. The education and examinations departments provided substantial support, including the use of vocal methods for exams, where teachers read my exam papers aloud, recorded my responses, and transcribed them. I also learned braille for a brief period, which aided in writing but remained a challenge for reading. Additionally, I used audio formats for study materials. This combination of resources and support allowed me to complete my studies successfully.

 What facilities and support systems are available at your university for blind students, and how do they compare with other institutions?

At the University of Colombo, where I am studying law, there are several facilities designed to support blind students. These include vocal-based exam methods, where exam papers are read aloud, and my answers are recorded and transcribed. This support system helps accommodate the needs of blind students effectively. However, the level of support can vary significantly between institutions. While government universities generally strive to provide necessary facilities, some may not offer the same extent of support. For example, not all universities have vocal-based exam facilities or comprehensive braille resources. This variation can create challenges for students who are accustomed to specific support methods. Ensuring a uniform level of support across all educational institutions would help provide equal opportunities for blind students.

 What improvements do you think are needed in the educational system to better support blind students?

To better support blind students, several improvements are needed in the educational system. First, there should be a broader and more consistent availability of audio books and other study materials tailored for higher education. This would enable blind students to access learning resources more independently and effectively. Second, there needs to be a standardized approach to providing vocal methods and braille resources across all educational institutions. This ensures that all students receive consistent support regardless of their location. Third, training for educators on how to support blind students effectively is crucial. This training should cover best practices for using assistive technologies, providing accessible materials, and creating an inclusive learning environment. Additionally, schools should establish dedicated support teams to address the specific needs of blind students.

 How do societal attitudes and accessibility issues affect blind individuals, and what changes would improve their daily lives?

Societal attitudes and accessibility issues significantly impact the daily lives of blind individuals. Often, societal attitudes include pity rather than genuine understanding and respect. This can lead to emotional distress and feelings of isolation, as blind individuals may experience negative reactions or condescension from others. Accessibility issues also pose major challenges; for example, the lack of special lanes, tactile paving, and audible signals at traffic lights can create safety hazards and limit mobility. To improve daily life, there needs to be a focus on enhancing infrastructure and fostering greater societal awareness. Implementing features like tactile paving and special pedestrian lanes can improve safety and accessibility. Additionally, public awareness campaigns can help change societal attitudes, promoting a more inclusive and respectful environment for blind individuals.

 What policy changes would you recommend to better support blind individuals in areas like education, employment, and voting?

Several policy changes could greatly enhance support for blind individuals across various areas. In education, policies should include better integration of braille and other accessible formats into the electoral process. For example, providing braille ballots or instructions at polling stations would enable blind voters to participate independently and with confidence. In terms of employment, especially in fields such as law and ICT, policies should focus on providing specialized tools and accommodations to support blind professionals. This could include resources for reading and presenting evidence in the legal field and accessible ICT training. Furthermore, enhancing ICT education with tools and resources designed for blind individuals would help them excel in technology-related fields. Establishing dedicated committees that include disabled individuals and organizations can help ensure that policies are tailored to address their specific needs and create more inclusive opportunities.

These expanded questions and answers provide a comprehensive overview of the major topics discussed in the interview, offering detailed insights into the challenges, resources, and recommendations related to supporting blind individuals.