Harish Iyer

Harish iyer

Harish Iyer (also known as "Aham", born 16 April 1979) is an Indian activist known for his work in the fields of gay rights, child sexual abuse, and animal rights. Iyer is one of the most prominent voices in India's LGBTQ+ community and has been instrumental in the fight against Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized homosexual acts in India until it was partially struck down by the Supreme Court of India in 2018.

Early Life and Education

Harish Iyer was born in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. He has been open about his experiences of surviving child sexual abuse from the age of 7 to 18 by a close relative. These harrowing experiences shaped much of his later activism, particularly his work in advocating for the rights and protection of children against sexual abuse.

Activism

LGBTQ+ Rights

Iyer's activism in the LGBTQ+ community has included a wide range of efforts, from participating in Pride parades across India to advocating for legal reforms. He played a significant role in the battle against Section 377, speaking at various forums and using media to raise awareness about the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community in India. His efforts, along with those of many others, culminated in the historic Supreme Court judgment in 2018 that decriminalized consensual homosexual acts among adults in private.

Child Sexual Abuse

Drawing from his personal experiences, Iyer has been a vocal advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse. He has worked with several organizations to spread awareness, provide support to survivors, and push for stronger legal protections. His advocacy has also extended to promoting sex education in schools as a means to empower children and protect them from abuse.

Animal Rights

Apart from his work in human rights, Iyer is also an active animal rights advocate. He has been involved in various campaigns against animal cruelty, promoting veganism, and working with animal welfare organizations.

Media and Public Speaking

Harish Iyer has utilized media extensively to spread his message, appearing on various national television shows, writing columns for newspapers, and participating in public speaking events. His ability to articulate the concerns of marginalized communities has made him a sought-after speaker and commentator on issues of social justice.

Recognition

Iyer's activism has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized both in India and internationally for his contributions to human rights and social justice. His story and work have been featured in numerous publications, documentaries, and talk shows, highlighting the impact of his activism.

Personal Life

Harish Iyer is openly gay and has been candid about his sexuality and experiences, using his life story to inspire others and foster a greater understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. He continues to live and work in Mumbai, dedicating his life to activism and advocacy.

See Also

• LGBT rights in India
• Child sexual abuse in India
• Animal welfare and rights in India