Slamet Susanto, Yogyakarta – This year's Independence Day celebrations will see some 265 transsexuals from the Yogyakarta Transvestites Organization (IWAYO) take part in a number of activities, such as sports and stage performances.
"Our sports and performing groups will be actively involved in Independence Day celebrations and interact with the general public," said transvestite Yetty, 48, who was playing volleyball alongside his colleagues in Soragan, Ngestiharjo, Bantul, on Monday.
They said they were willing to travel the eight kilometers from their homes in Kricak, Yogyakarta.
Yetty said most people felt negatively toward them because they were unfamiliar with transvestites and blamed them for things like the spread of HIV/AIDS even though injecting drug users were regarded as the main culprits.
"The negative view might be due to a number of transvestites who are uncommunicative and refuse to socialize with the community. It's normal then when people have a negative feeling about us," said Yetty.
Another transvestite, Tasya, 26, said her colleagues would also be involved in art performances.
"We will take part in stage performances to enliven the event. How can the public know us if we are not active?" Tasya asked. Tasya said there were 265 members registered with the IWAYO. They are required to take part in public activities and do community work. "We will use the moment to interact with the public in general," she said.
Wahyu, an organizing committee member in Soragan, Ngestiharjo, said the presence of transvestites in Independence Day celebrations would also make for a cheerful atmosphere.
"Especially, so far people only know them as spreading diseases and being violent. They are a community and also human beings. We hope that people will no longer discriminate against them after this event," he said.
Preparations for Independence Day are in full swing across Yogyakarta, with all parts of society encouraged to take part.
In Bantul, locals are organizing a mud soccer game for housewives. "We can gather and have fun, unlike normal days when everyone is busy with work," said Suparti, a housewife who will take part.
She said she enjoyed the games despite. "It's very enjoyable after we are kept occupied with household chores," she added.
Residents say they will also use the day to pray in remembrance of last year's devastating earthquake in the area. "We will reflect upon ourselves on the eve of August 17, and pray in order that disasters will never happen again," said Soge, 37, from Sanden, Bantul.