Cardinal Anthony Poola Celebrates Christmas with Transgender Communities

Suraram, Hyderabad, December 19, 2024: In a remarkable display of inclusivity and compassion, Cardinal Anthony Poola, the first Cardinal from the Telugu States and Chairman of the Hyderabad Archdiocese Social Service Society (HASSS), celebrated Semi-Christmas with the transgender community at Suraram Colony, located on the outskirts of Hyderabad on December 18. This area, predominantly inhabited by transgender individuals who have migrated from various parts of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, serves as a refuge for those often unaccepted by their families and society.

The celebration was graced by Cardinal Anthony Poola as the Chief Guest. Sharing the stage with him were notable figures dedicated to supporting the PwD and transgender communities in Telangana, including Mrs. Aruna and Preethi Sunanda, Mrs. Jasmine from the Telangana Trans Equality Society and Sunanda, a senior transgender leader. 

The event, organized by HASSS under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Madanu Anthony, aimed to empower the transgender community and foster inclusivity. In his inspiring Christmas address, Cardinal Poola drew from the Gospel, reminding the gathering of Jesus’ words: “All those who welcome the least welcome me.” He emphasized that true Christmas lies in embracing the poor and neglected, offering them acceptance and dignity.

As part of the celebration, Cardinal Poola distributed certificates to transgender individuals who completed jute bag-making training programs facilitated by HASSS. He also presented sewing machines to women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and distributed Christmas gifts to all 93 transgender participants, along with members of the SHG groups. This initiative builds upon HASSS’s ongoing efforts to provide alternative livelihoods to the transgender community. 

Previous initiatives by HASSS include training programs in paper plate making, jute bag making and the creation of TG (Transgender) identity cards. HASSS has also supported the establishment of sustainable Kirana stores, providing transgender individuals with stable income sources and discouraging dependence on sex work and begging. These programs aim to uplift and empower the community, enabling them to lead lives of dignity and self-reliance.

Cardinal Poola Anthony lauded HASSS for its commitment to serving the transgender community and other vulnerable groups. The celebration serves as a powerful testament to the Church’s commitment to inclusivity, spreading the message of love, hope, and dignity for all, especially those on the peripheries of society.

By Mrs. Maria Vasantha