In this interview with Alliance Magazine, Rosanna Flamer-Caldera, founder of EQUAL GROUND and Colombo Pride reflects on her decades-long fight for LGBTIQ rights in Sri Lanka, where same-sex relationships remain criminalised under colonial-era laws. Drawing on her early experiences in San Francisco’s vibrant queer scene, she returned home to create safe, affirming spaces for the local community. She discusses how Colombo …

Thinking about last month, we laughed, sang, danced, and stood proudly together, louder, brighter, and stronger than ever. EQUAL GROUND and Colombo PRIDE thanks everyone for their participation and love! This year’s PRIDE marks as one of the biggest we’ve celebrated since the initial start 21 years ago despite all the hardships we’ve had to face this year! From heartfelt …

A Better Place is a powerful documentary by the Human Dignity Trust and The Good Side, exploring the harmful legacy of British colonial-era laws that criminalise same-sex relationships and fail to protect survivors of sexual violence. Filmed across multiple countries, the film sheds light on the lived realities of LGBTQ+ people and women denied justice, while celebrating the courage of …

In 2022, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) stated that the criminalisation of same-sex relationships between consenting adult women in Sri Lanka violated the CEDAW treaty. The Government of Sri Lanka was urged to make the necessary legal reforms. The original case which was put forward by Rosanna Flamer-Caldera, Executive Director of EQUAL GROUND, supported by …

Feel the energy and excitement as we make our way to the ultimate destination for fun and festivities. Watch the sky come alive with a dazzling array of kites and watch the sun set, as we get ready to dance and celebrate with lively music and a joyful atmosphere.  Join us for a day of love, unity, and pride. Bring …

Get ready for an unforgettable celebration at the PRIDE Carnival! Immerse yourself in three full days filled with creativity and excitement. Showcase your artistic flair in our on-site poster and digital photography competitions. Express your voice and talent at our open mic sessions, whether it’s through spoken word, music, drag performances, or dancing.  Explore the beauty of acceptance and being …

As we get ready to celebrate PRIDE, here is a lineup of some important events we don’t want you to miss! Join us for three days of pure celebration and joy at our Rainbow PRIDE Carnival! From thrilling competitions to vibrant performances it’s all happening at the PRIDE Carnival. Take to the streets and walk with pride as we come …

Honoured to announce that Rosanna Flamer-Caldera, founder and Executive Director of EQUAL GROUND, has been recognised as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024! For over twenty years, Flamer-Caldera has been a fearless advocate for LGBTIQ rights in Sri Lanka, sparking significant change on a global scale.  The article by TIME highlights her victory in 2022 when the …

EQUAL GROUND recently made a significant step in its journey to make Sri Lanka’s corporate sector a space that is accepting of and safe for members of the LGBTIQ community, with the launch of its e-module on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The e-module, which explores topics related to Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, or Gender Expression (SOGIE), can be utilised by …

After much delays on the part of the State, EQUAL GROUND once again managed to achieve yet another legal win for the LGBTIQ community in Sri Lanka!  The previous Police Circular dated 27.12.2022 which listed guidelines for the police when dealing with the community was restricted to only include transgender persons and persons undergoing gender transition as opposed to the …