Every year on May 17th, the world marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. This day is a global recognition aimed at increasing knowledge about the prejudices that the LGBTQ+ community faces, and to mobilize people towards advocating for their rights worldwide. This significant day marks the occasion in 1990 when the World Health Organization made the crucial decision to no longer consider homosexuality a mental illness.
This day serves as an appeal to every individual, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity, to embrace and appreciate the diverse range of experiences in our shared world, especially those faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
History of International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia
Established in 2004, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) is marked annually on May 17. It highlights the continual need to combat violence and prejudice against individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or intersex.
This day was purposefully set to coincide with the significant global health decision made by the World Health Organization on the same day in 1990 to no longer categorize homosexuality as a mental disorder.
Originally called “International Day Against Homophobia”, or IDAHO, it expanded its focus in 2009 to include transphobia, recognizing the specific issues faced by the transgender community. The term biphobia was added to the title in 2015, further broadening its scope to challenge discrimination against bisexual individuals.
Each year, IDAHOTB is marked under a unique theme. For example, “Mental Health and well being” were the key subjects in 2016, indicating the psychological health difficulties faced by many in the LGBTQ+ community due to bias and discrimination.
Today, over 130 countries observe this day, surprisingly, even those where same-sex relations remain illegal. The commemoration of the day varies across these locations, featuring activities like lobbying, education drives, and festive events.
Notwithstanding the substantial development in laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights over recent years, further work remains to achieve total equality. IDAHOTB thus serves as a poignant reminder of this ongoing battle and a call to action, urging everyone everywhere to contribute to sparking change.
International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia Timeline
Homosexuality Declassified as Mental Illness
World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental illness, a significant milestone in the recognition of LGBT rights.
Day Against Homophobia Initiated
The first action against homophobia was held in Quebec, Canada. This later inspired the international recognition.
First International Day Against Homophobia
The Day is marked globally to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBT people internationally.
Transphobia Recognized
The event officially starts to recognize and include transphobia, as a response to the violence and discrimination faced by transgender people.
Biphobia Recognized
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia officially begins acknowledging biphobia, to include issues faced by the bisexual community.
Continued Celebration and Advocacy
People around the world continue to recognize and celebrate the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.
Ideas to Celebrate International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia
Rainbow Parade
Organize a colorful parade around your community to celebrate diversity, encourage visibility, and protest against discrimination of LGBTQ+ individuals. Invite everyone to come and be part of the event and don't forget to educate attendees about the significance of the day.
Workplace Sensitization Workshop
Host a workshop to educate your colleagues about sexual orientations and gender identities, and the effects of harassment and discrimination. You can invite an expert or an advocate to lead the discussion. Be sure it provides a safe and open space for questions and discussion.
Movie Screening Event
Screen films and documentaries that highlight LGBTQ+ experiences, the effects of homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia, and the importance of equality. After the screening, encourage conversations to foster understanding and empathy among viewers.
Social Media Campaign
Create a social media campaign that emphasizes love, acceptance, and fight against homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. Encourage participants to share their stories, experiences, or messages of support using a specific hashtag.
Community Dialogue
Organize a town hall-style meeting inviting community members, local representatives, and LGBTQ+ advocates. This platform can help share personal experiences, discuss policies, and create a dialogue for acceptance and change in your community.
7 Interesting Facts About International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia
Significance of the Date
The day is celebrated on May 17. The date was chosen as it represents the day in 1990 when homosexuality was declassified as a mental disorder by the World Health Organization.
International Recognition
United Nations and many countries around the world officially recognizes and celebrates this day.
Acts of Solidarity
On this day, various activities take place worldwide. Activities can range from peaceful marches and parades to conferences, forums, and workshops that fight against homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia.
Global Rainbow Flashmob
A multinational event - the Global Rainbow Flashmob - is usually organized on May 17 to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. Participants dress in the colors of the rainbow flag, symbolizing LGBTQ+ pride.
Exclusivity
This day does not belong to any one particular organization or entity. It is a day for people to take action in whatever capacity they can, to raise awareness for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.
Raising Awareness
The day's main purpose is to raise awareness of the violence, discrimination, and harassment faced by LGBT+ people internationally.
Promotes LEGAL Reforms
The day is often used to push for international legal reforms to protect people from discriminations on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia FAQs
Next International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 17th | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 17th | Friday |
| 2025 | May 17th | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 17th | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 17th | Monday |
| What is the pattern? | Every May 17th | |
International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia Word Search
- Equality
- Acceptance
- Respect
- Diversity
- Pride
- Tolerance