International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia 2023

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) is celebrated every year on 17^th May in over 130 countries across the world.

The date was specifically chosen to commemorate the decision by the World Health Organisation in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.

Why do we need IDAHOBIT?

IDAHOBIT is a reminder that although LGBTQ+ representation is increasing and many more individuals are feeling safer to be more seen and visible, hate crimes are also increasing and LGBTQ+ individuals still face barriers daily.

For example, in the UK the number of transgender hate crimes that occurred in 2020/21 was 2,799, the number increased to 4,355 in 2021/22. The number of sexual orientation hate crimes increased in the UK from 18,596 in 2020/21 to 26,152 in 2021/22.

IDAHOBIT is an opportunity for organisations to shine a light on the discrimination the LGBTQ+ community experiences and encourage and promote LGBTQ+ inclusion.

This year’s theme is ‘TOGETHER ALWAYS: UNITED IN DIVERSITY’

The theme allows different LGBTQI+ groups across the world to advocate and celebrate in many ways – from human rights organisations, LGBTQI+ networks, or allies.

The theme also promotes the power of solidarity, allyship and community across identities, borders and movements. This is especially important when hard-won advances in equality and inclusion feel under threat.

IGLA World (the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Intersex Association) has worked with a Chilean artist to produce a range of illustrations that celebrate global diversity and promote this year’s theme. You can see more illustrations and how to share here.

For more information about IDAHOBIT and how you can mark the day, you can visit May17.org, ILGA World, or Stonewall.

The Council work extremely hard to ensure that we offer a safe and enjoyable place for LGBTQ+ people to work and to ensure that the Vale of Glamorgan area is a positive and nurturing environment therein. If you would like to get involved in this, or if you have any suggestions for how to make things better, please contact GLAM, our LGBTQ+ Staff Network.

There are also some useful and interesting courses available for all staff on iDev.

If you are concerned about discrimination or harassment, or want more information about how to report it, please refer to the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s grievance policy.