May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
May 16, 2016
The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT) is commemorated annually on May 17 in almost 120 countries worldwide. It was created in 2004 to draw the attention of policymakers, opinion leaders, social movements, the public and the media to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTI people internationally.
For years, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems listed homosexuality as a diagnosis. But on May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization removed it from the list. Hence why the date of May 17th was chosen to annually mark this day.
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.
To read more on the IDAHOT, and check out the events for 2016, click here
For years, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems listed homosexuality as a diagnosis. But on May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization removed it from the list. Hence why the date of May 17th was chosen to annually mark this day.
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.
To read more on the IDAHOT, and check out the events for 2016, click here
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