A real, tangible and everyday concern in today's progressing world are the subjects of homophobia, trans-misogyny, sexism and racism and although the latter two are now deemed unacceptable in society many people still harbour feelings of homophobia and transphobia deep within themselves without any castigation or rebuke.

And addressing these sensitive and precarious issues of homosexuality and trans-misogyny, an individual photo exhibition by Gazi Nafis Ahmed named Innate Identities was showcased in Bengal Gallery located at Dhanmondi 27.

Inaugrated on 10 May by US Ambassador to Bangladesh His Excellency Dan Mozena, His Excellency Gerben Sjoerd de Jong, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Bangladesh graced the occasion as chief guest while Leo Kenny, Country Coordinator of the UN Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), and John Stanmeyer, Founding Member of Vll Photo Agency were special guests on the occasion.

The exhibition struck a chord as you saw faces and emotions being reflected on the portraits captured by the photographer. Young love comes across in the framed photographs with no inhibition spared to race, gender or caste. The exhibition continued until 17 May, which also commemorates the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia which aims to celebrate sexual and gender diversities and this photo exhibition aimed at doing just that.



Photo: Gazi Nafis Ahmed