Adhikaar Aotearoa

Adhikaar Aotearoa is a charity created by the strong bond between Cayathri and Vinod, two LGBTQIA+ friends who share a passion for social justice. Their vision for Adhikaar Aotearoa stems from a desire to create a more equitable space for LGBTQIA+ communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The organization reclaims the term "Queer" as a symbol of empowerment and resilience for those who have faced marginalization due to their sexual and gender identities. Adhikaar Aotearoa recognizes the ever-evolving nature of queerness and aims to redefine what it means to be LGBTQIA+ in New Zealand.

Their work goes beyond sexual orientation and gender identity. They acknowledge the impact of intersecting factors like caste, class, disability, neurodiversity, race, and ethnicity. Through their own experiences of marginalization, Adhikaar Aotearoa challenges societal norms and fosters a space for open expression and exploration of LGBTQIA+ identities.

Founded in 2020 by Cayathri and Vinod, Adhikaar Aotearoa officially became a registered charity in early 2021. Despite their different backgrounds, their shared experiences and critical perspectives on social issues solidified their friendship and fueled their mission to create positive change.