Historic Moment: India's First Openly Gay Athlete Dutee Chand Waves Pride Flag At The Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony

Indian sprinter Dutee Chand has been a bastion of LGBTQ+ rights ever since she came out as gay in 2019. In what has come as a pleasant surprise, the Indian sprinter waved the LGBTQ+ flag at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham.

She later participated in Queen's Baton to bring attention to homophobia in Commonwealth countries alongside British synchronised diver and Olympic gold medalist Tom Daley. They were joined by other LGBTQ+ activists and athletes in Bisi Alimi, Glenroy Murray, Mound Goba, Jason Jones and Prossy Kakooza.

The British diver Daley posted a picture on his Instagram account where all these athletes could be seen waving Pride flags at the opening event of the Commonwealth Games 2022. Daley’s caption read, “Tonight at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham, myself and 6 extraordinary LGBTQ+ athletes and advocates from around the Commonwealth will be carrying the Queen’s baton into the stadium.”

 

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Dutee Chand who has been on the wrong end of backlash in the country was ecstatic after being with like-minded people. Speaking to PTI after the event she said, “I went through a lot of mental torture, there were some who supported me. Most of my people stopped talking to me. LGBT+ athletes should be made to feel safe and comfortable, being their usual selves without fear of persecution or death.”

“Language was a barrier, but spending a few moments with Daley boosted Dutee's confidence. He taught me a few steps while the music was blaring out loud. It was a lot of fun. I also got a chance to meet Prince Charles," Dutee said.

Very proud to support @TomDaley1994’s initiative to address inclusion and recognition of LGBTIQ individuals in all Commonwealth Countries! https://t.co/b8a7pG5RIN

— Dutee Chand (@DuteeChand) July 29, 2022

People told me I was 'mentally sick'- Chand

On her relationship, Dutee said, "When I first acknowledged my relationship status I did not know about the LGBTQ+ movement. People derided me and told me I was 'mentally sick' and used swear words in public.”

Dutee, however, sees things changing and is happy about it. She said, "I had sleepless nights, but now things have changed for the better. I never thought this would happen one day and I would be invited as the brand ambassador of CWG. It could not have been bigger than this. Now everything has stopped and the same people come up to me and show respect."

Dutee Chand will compete in the 100m Sprint and relay events at the Commonwealth Games 2022.