Since 2005, May 17 has been dedicated to the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB), marking the day in 1990 when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.
A worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversities, IDAHOTB draws attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, as well as those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics.
This year’s theme is “Together: Resisting, Supporting, Healing!”, and once again, nearly all IDAHOTB events will take place online. Between postings on Queer Events Canada and the internationally recognized May17.org, there’s a number of virtual suggestions for those who want to raise awareness and support.
In Victoria, B.C., a permanent “Inclusive Pride Flag Crosswalk” will be painted by students in front of their high school. Dignity Network Canada and BlackCAP have organized a virtual panel discussion with Black leaders from a number of national LGBTIQ human rights organizations in Canada, the U.K., the Netherlands and the U.S..To browse a complete selection of IDAHOTB happenings in Canada, visit May17.org’s designated country page here. On social media, follow #idahot2021 and #idahot for more.
