Pipena | පිපෙන | Bloom
“There is a lack of representation of queer people of colour, especially from a South Asian background, in Aotearoa... [t]his needs to change.”
The purpose of this kaupapa is to bring light to the untold narratives of South Asian whānau who are diverse in their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Through this mini-documentary, we wish to celebrate intersectional stories and showcase varying perspectives of living a life true to oneself, and all that makes up that identity.
The social acceptance of diverse SOGIESC identities continues to be challenged in 2024 and those in this community with South Asian whakapapa face further challenges. We not only battle for recognition within our communities, but also struggle to find a space in the queer discourse dominated by Pākeha queer and trans people in Aotearoa.
“Love is transformative.
When someone genuinely cares and loves you, and sees you for who you are, something happens inside of you....You bloom.”
The title of this kaupapa ‘Pipena’, loosely translates to ‘bloom’ in English. We hope that by giving space and opportunity for our diverse SOGIESC South Asian whānau that their stories can bloom. Once free to bloom, these stories will stand amongst the other putiputi (flowers) in the garden of pride. This kaupapa is about nurturing and sustaining stories, weaving bespoke narratives of Ethnic culture, diverse SOGIESC identities and calling Aotearoa home.
We see this also as an opportunity to look within our own South Asian communities, to our own whānau who might be yet to understand the beauty of their diverse SOGIESC children.
“Sometimes I just forget that I’m trans. It’s so intrinsically part of me....It’s just what I am.”
Objectives
Show Aotearoa New Zealand a refreshing perspective of an intersectional diverse SOGIESC identity.
Show our own wider South Asian whānau that we do exist, and we are thriving amongst the garden of other diverse SOGIESC stories being told.
Bring to life one of the many recommendations of the Adhikaar Report.
Reframe South Asian diverse SOGIESC stories to showcase intersectionality, that is beyond the current, often stereotypical perception of us.
“I’m at a point in my life where I am loved by a lot of people, but I struggle to accept it.”
Watch Pipena | පිපෙන | Bloom
“I’m a queer South Asian woman. First generation, youngest in my family.”
Acknowledgements
Shawn Wimalaratne
Kashmiri Devi
Mervin Singham
Warna Karunanayake
Frank Productions
Hamish McCormick - director/editor
Luke Frater - camera
Trent Williams - sound
Made with the support of The Tindall Foundation and the Ministry of Social Development.
