May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT).
It is a day to celebrate the contributions made by 2SLGBTQI+ people to society. It is also a day to take action, increase awareness and affirm the fundamental rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people.
Despite the progress that has been made over the years, 2SLGBTQI+ people still regularly face harassment, intimidation and violence in their daily lives on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.
2SLGBTQI+ people are particularly vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19. They are more likely to have low incomes, face discrimination in the workplace, and are faced with many forms of discrimination, stigma and persecution which may make taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 difficult, and create barriers to accessing health care.
The OFL encourages you to be part of celebrating the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, and has produced a poster you can print out and display in a window of your home or vehicle to show your support.
Together, we can and will fight homophobia, transphobia, biphobia and all other forms of hate and discrimination in our homes, schools, workplaces, communities, and government.
We must join together to speak out against hate and discrimination and demand justice, equality, and fair treatment of all people no matter what their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression are. The #PowerOfMany continue to fight for an inclusive, fair and just society for all.
Here are a few simple ways you can show your support and participate in IDAHOT actions on May 17:
- Hang a pride, trans or other 2SLGBTQI+ supportive flag or banner in your window on your porch, or from your balcony
- Draw, paint or print a poster to display in your window, door or on your front lawn
- Write a colourful chalk message on your driveway or sidewalk
- Wear something rainbow or identifiable as 2SLGBTQI+ supportive when you take a walk
- On social media, share the way you marked the day, and tag @OFLabour and use the hashtag #PowerOfMany.
