The State Department is looking to dump $50,000 into “inclusive” policies in Indian corporations, according to The Daily Wire. The taxpayer money is set to be disbursed to an Indian organization called the YR Gaitonde Medical, Educational and Research Foundation.
The payments are broken down into federal and non-federal spending. The “obligated amount” is $49,812.50 and the non-federal amount is $42,125.00, which totals $91,937.50. The source of the non-federal payment is not listed.
The description of the grant describes the mission of sensitizing employees toward transgender persons, “adopt inclusive policies, and create a safe and nurturing environment.” An objective for the department is stated as influencing foreign publics and advancing national interests.
In August 2022, the State Department posted an advertisement titled, “Countering Stigma and Prejudice Against the Transgender Community.” The ad specified that it was targeting Indian institutions, which could receive up to $50,000 for complying with policies that “foster a more inclusive environment.” Workshops would be organized for corporations in Hyderabad and Chennai to help them become more sensitive to the transgender community.
A spokesperson for the department reportedly told The Daily Wire that minorities, such as indigenous peoples, women, and members of the LGBTQ community “live with disproportionate violence that requires targeted support.”
The push for transgenderism in India has been successful. A 2014 court ruling stated that those who identify as trans are now recognized as being a part of a third gender. Discrimination against trans people is also illegal in the country. The United States has also led the effort to ensure trans people are being recognized.
In 2020, U.S. Consulate General Kolkata helped open up the country’s first transgender medical clinic. Another clinic was opened in 2021. U.S. Consulate General Chennai has also hosted pride events, with one called, “Recognizing Pride in American Literature.”
