Manila: As a cisgender woman leading within the LGBTIQA+ community, Xyza Ragunjan approaches her role with deep respect and a commitment to continuous learning. Ragunjan, a professional dance artist for nearly 15 years, is at the helm of the House of Mizrahi in the Philippines, fostering a burgeoning ballroom scene that intertwines self-expression, community, and activism.
According to UN Women, Ragunjan serves as a mentor and guide for many within the community, particularly young queer and trans creatives, as they explore their identities, career paths, and aspirations. The House of Mizrahi Philippines has become a vital space for these individuals, offering mentorship and support in navigating the complex intersections of their personal and professional lives.
While the ballroom community's primary focus is not on climate-related issues, Ragunjan and her house have extended their solidarity to those affected by natural disasters, quietly donating funds during typhoons to assist those in need. These acts of support align with the broader principles of the Beijing Platform for Action (BPfA), which underscores the importance of gender-responsive disaster preparedness and recovery, recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental crises on women and marginalized communities.
Ragunjan's efforts highlight the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by fem queens and the trans community in the Philippines, which are exacerbated by persistent inequalities in healthcare, social services, and legal protections. "For us, survival isn't just about getting through a typhoon," she states. "It's about making sure our community has consistent access to the healthcare and support we need to live with dignity."
Addressing the systemic gaps in access to gender-affirming healthcare and mental health services, Ragunjan provides direct support to those undergoing gender transition. She emphasizes the need for educational spaces within the community to raise awareness about trans health and access to medical and mental health care. "Access is a huge barrier in the Philippines. Many medical professionals either won't help or are not familiar with how to provide safe care," she explains.
Ragunjan also calls for urgent government action to address these access gaps, an issue echoed in the BPfA, which advocates for universal healthcare access and the protection of marginalized women and girls' rights, including those with diverse gender identities. She asserts, "Transitioning safely should be a basic right. Mental health services should be accessible to everyone. Right now, it's too expensive for most people."
Despite the challenges, Ragunjan remains optimistic about the future, emphasizing the community's foundation of love, creation, and mutual support. However, she acknowledges the persistence of discrimination and unsafe spaces outside the community. "We need more safe spaces, places where we can be ourselves, marry who we love, have equal rights in education and work, and live without fear," she urges.
Ragunjan's call to action is clear: "We need government policies that support us. We need them to recognize our rights, protect our health, and make sure everyone, especially the trans women and the young LGBTQIA+ community, can live with dignity."
