Despite the acronym, this day is not about small folk who live in the Shire; May 17th is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. The date of May 17 was specifically chosen to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.
It is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness about the ongoing discrimination, violence, and marginalisation faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and intersex people, and all of those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics. The campaign seeks to celebrate diversity and advocate for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people.
This year’s theme, “Together always: united in diversity,” was decided through a large consultation with LGBTQIA+ organisations from around the world.
The campaign’s objectives include:
● Raising awareness about the ongoing discrimination and violence faced by LGBTQIA+ people.
● Encouraging individuals, organisations, agencies, and other key actors to take action in promoting equality and celebrating diversity.
● Advocating for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, particularly those who belong to further marginalised groups.
● Creating a platform for LGBTQIA+ people to share their stories and experiences.
● Fostering a sense of community and solidarity among LGBTQIA+ people and their allies around the world.
For more information please visit May17.org or check out these related articles and pages:
International Day Against Homophobia Biphobia and Transphobia (CUPE, 2023)
Solidarity with LGBTQI2S people is more important than ever (BCFed, 2020)
If you’d like to get involved in this kind of activism, please reach out to the IDEA Committee.
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