Native Alliance, a grassroots Indigenous LGBTQIA+ organization advocating for the rights of LGBTQ communities in Bangladesh, organized a 3-day capacity-building workshop from September 5–7, 2025 in Rangamati, Chittagong Hill Tracts. The workshop brought together 20 participants from Indigenous gender-diverse communities to build knowledge, solidarity, and strength.

For three days, participants gathered in a safe and inclusive space where they laughed, cried, learned, and celebrated their identities. The sessions focused on gender, feminism, sexuality, and Indigenous identity, encouraging participants to challenge societal stereotypes and reclaim their voices. This was not only a training but an awakening experience — a collective journey of empowerment where participants realized that silence is no longer their destiny.

Courageous facilitators guided participants through interactive discussions, leadership exercises, and reflection circles, reminding everyone that diversity is a source of power, not weakness. The workshop emphasized that across hills, villages, and cities, Indigenous gender-diverse people are connected, resilient, and proud.

Beyond capacity building, the workshop created a platform for healing and solidarity. Participants expressed that they felt less alone, more visible, and more determined to continue their advocacy for equality and justice. Together, they envisioned a society where every person — regardless of gender identity or sexuality — can live with dignity, safety, and pride.

The workshop concluded with a strong commitment to continue resisting oppression and building a stronger movement. As participants affirmed: “We are our own voices. We are stronger together.”