In this episode, Raina Roy reflects on the genealogy of queer/trans activism in Kolkata, tracing back to kothi gatherings at Rabindra Sarobar Lake. She emphasises that academics must cultivate long-term, reciprocal relationships with activists—without whom their research questions, archives, and subjects would not exist. Roy highlights the value of engaging seriously with critique and draws connections between SIR and Palestine to articulate a broader vision of social justice. She shares her desire to teach Marx in academia and aspires for a more livable future.