Visionary Voices: Tashnuva Anan Shishir is Changing the Way that LGBTQ+ Representation is Portrayed in the World of News and Media

 

Tashnuva Anan Shishir (Photo Credit: Thedailystar.net)

Shishir's Story

The news just got a whole lot more inclusive. Allow us to introduce you to Tashnuva Anan Shishir, Bangladesh's first transgender news anchor. If you remember from earlier this month, one of our post's featured U.S. Representative, Ritchie Torres. Shortly after that, Shishir's spotlight expanded across the globe. Not only did this allow the her to share a part of her truth, but it also gave her the opportunity to feel more recognized.  The door quickly opened to a conversation about LGBTQ+ representation, a conversation that mainly takes place in low volume or is completely muted. It is interesting to consider that women who share Shishir's story are still trying to become recognized within our society. And with recognition, it is just as important to have representation. Without it, representation for the LGBTQ+ community are facing much of an uphill battle. Yet, the climb continues. 

Tashnuva Anan Shishir (Photo Credit: Nytimes.com)

The Strength through the Struggle

While some of Shishir's story is still unfolding right before the media's lens, it is worth looking more into. From what is available online, I was able to discover that indeed, Shishir has had many struggles to find support to get to where she is today. And the role of LGBTQ+ representation that she now fills is inspirational. For a majority of her life, Shishir has been through many obstacles that made her question herself and her existence. And with these obstacles came the challenge of feeling accepted for being who she is. Not too many consider the hardships that come with trying to live authentically. I think a huge part of this is due to the stigmatization that comes from talking about such internal struggles. It is truly taking a toll on not only a large part of our society, but the transgender community as well. Despite not having the support system that she should have had from her family growing up, Shishir is rightfully earning the welcoming from the world. And she deserves it.

Tashnuva Anan Shishir (Photo Credit: Nytimes.com)

Reporting & LGBTQ+ Representation 

One question that continues to showup on this blog, is why is it important to have representation in the media? How often do you feel seen when you look at the screen? What about feeling understood? Have you ever been able to relate to a figure outside of a network series? And media aside, how often are those who identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum able to recognize similar stories of their own? In other words, why is it that we rarely get to celebrate differences in professional or even political spheres of our society? So often, our media fails to ensure that those who are in front of the screen, are those who can represent everyone. It is a  work in progress that can only level up when we have more stories like Shishir's for people to hear. And with all of these questions, it seems that we are getting some answers. 

Facing Forward

As a frequent reader and watcher of the news, it is extremely rare to see LGBTQ+ representation. But there is hope for the better. Day-by-day, the lens of life seems to only be widening with each  story like Shishir's. I am hopeful that this will eventually lead us all in the direction to where representation of the LGBTQ+ community will be more normalized. What is also something worth celebrating, is that we have a sure sign that those who feel unseen are breaking through invisible barriers. I am happy that Shishir is now getting to be herself. Something that I am quite certain many of us can aspire to. Here at the LGBTQ+ Media Lens, I like to think that part of our reporting of these important stories will inspire you. And to also little more openly and a little more authentically. Sometimes we have to widen are own lenses to be seen. Until then, I hope that you will keep looking forward to the future ahead.  

Tashnuva Anan Shishir (Photo Credit: BBC.com)

Tomorrow is the first day of spring, wishing you all a blooming season to come.

Also, do not forget to check out the post we did on Ritchie Torres. You can find that feature here. 

Thank you for your time. See you in the next post!

*None of these images or videos belong to me and were found on Google.