In the heart of Jakarta’s slums, a vibrant transgender community is wielding fashion as a potent tool, drawing attention to their lives and the pressing climate change in their densely packed, polluted city.
Parading down an impromptu runway decked in colorful dresses ingeniously fashioned from plastic utensils and bottles, these individuals, affectionately dubbed the “Trans Super Heroes” by Mama Atha, the visionary behind Sanggar Seroja dance studio, showcase their artistic flair. Some outfits, mirroring Christmas trees, add a festive touch to their display.
Their recycled material attire serves a dual purpose: advocating for LGBT rights and environmental awareness. At a recent Trans Super Heroes fashion show held in a traditional Jakarta market, these trans women boldly presented their eco-conscious garments, aiming to spark conversation and change perceptions.
Mama Atha, the de facto leader of the transgender community in Duri, emphasizes the initiative’s overarching goal: confronting environmental challenges while challenging societal norms.
In a society where homosexuality remains largely taboo, particularly in predominantly Muslim Indonesia, this event becomes a testament to the community’s resilience and determination to assert themselves.
Amidst social stigmas, Nuke Herawati, a 43-year-old trans woman, readies herself in front of the mirror, clad in a recycled-material dress designed to advocate for LGBT rights and environmental protection.
Her presence exemplifies the community’s courage in expressing their identities and concerns.
These transgender models, many of whom work as buskers or makeup artists, harness recycled materials to craft their remarkable fashion statements.
Mama Atha believes their artistry can illuminate the potential for positive change and innovation even in the most adverse circumstances.
While Indonesia grapples with shifting social attitudes, especially regarding the LGBTQ+ community, Mama Atha’s initiative serves as a critical platform for self-expression and environmental advocacy within this marginalized group.
I am an experienced writer, analyst, and author. My exposure in English journalism spans more than 28 years. In the past, I have been working with daily The Muslim (Lahore Bureau), daily Business Recorder (Lahore/Islamabad Bureaus), Daily Times, Islamabad, daily The Nation (Lahore and Karachi). With daily The Nation, I have served as Resident Editor, Karachi. Since 2009, I have been working as a Freelance Writer/Editor for American organizations.
