The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) was established in 2004 to shed light on the violence and discrimination experienced by individuals with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, or expressions, and sex characteristics.
The date of May 17th was specifically chosen to honour the World Health Organization’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.
This day serves as a global annual landmark to draw the attention of decision-makers, the media, the public, corporations, opinion leaders, and local authorities to the challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community. The initiative is now collectively managed in collaboration between regional and national networks working to advance the rights of gender and sexually diverse communities.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is currently celebrated in more than 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal. The May17.org website is illuminating in how our human rights struggle is global and how the movement continues to grow.
In Canada, since Monday we have had the Rainbow Week of Action, with thousands events and letter writing campaigns. Today, there is a rally in Calgary at 5 PM at Central Memorial Park in support of the queer and trans community. You can also send a letter to your MP through the Rainbow Week of Action website.
In Calgary, let’s support and recognize the importance of this day and work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting world for all!
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Calgary Gay History 