May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia
May 17, 2014
The International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia is commemorated annually on May 17 in almost 120 countries worldwide.
For years, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems listed homosexuality as a diagnosis; on May 17, 1990 the World Health Organization removed it from the list.
Although so many countries commemorate the day, there are still 76 countries where same-sex relationships are illegal and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people are violently persecuted. In seven of these countries, homosexual acts are punishable by death.
All human beings, groups and organizations have a human right to freely express themselves; this message should not only resonate on May 17, the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, but every day.
The global community must come together and give thanks to those who have paved the way and died fighting for their rights. As citizens, we should continue to educate and advocate in order for the LGBTQ community to have freedom of speech and to be able to identify in society without fear.
Together we can make a difference!
Source:
unifor2002.org
Jacqueline C. Collette
Unifor Local 2002 Human Rights Advocate
For years, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems listed homosexuality as a diagnosis; on May 17, 1990 the World Health Organization removed it from the list.
Although so many countries commemorate the day, there are still 76 countries where same-sex relationships are illegal and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people are violently persecuted. In seven of these countries, homosexual acts are punishable by death.
All human beings, groups and organizations have a human right to freely express themselves; this message should not only resonate on May 17, the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, but every day.
The global community must come together and give thanks to those who have paved the way and died fighting for their rights. As citizens, we should continue to educate and advocate in order for the LGBTQ community to have freedom of speech and to be able to identify in society without fear.
Together we can make a difference!
Source:
unifor2002.org
Jacqueline C. Collette
Unifor Local 2002 Human Rights Advocate
