According to its website The Gay and Lesbian Vaishnava Association, Inc. describes itself as:
"An international organization dedicated to the teachings of Lord Caitanya, the importance of all-inclusiveness within His mission, and the Vedic concept of a natural third gender. Its purpose is to educate Vaishnavas, Hindus and the public in general about the “third sex” as described in Vedic literatures. This knowledge will help to correct many of the common misconceptions that people hold today concerning third-gender people (gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgenders, the intersexed, etc.). In addition to this, GALVA wishes to provide a friendly and positive-oriented place where third-gender devotees and guests can associate together and utilize their time to learn more about Krsna consciousness and advance in spiritual life."
The website provides two sets of resources, information on Hindu texts' on gay, lesbian, bisexual, intersex and transgender individuals, as well as support resources for LGBT people who may be struggling with their dual identities as LGBT Hindus or who may want more information for family members.
Here is an overview of resources on the site:
- Articles on Hinduism and LGBT People (religious texts, contemporary issues, etc.)
- Links to spiritual literature on LGBT People and Hinduism
- Commentaries by various Hindu leaders on being LGBT and Hindu
- E-groups/ chatrooms and list serves to turn to for support
If you want to explore the website, please click here.
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