May 17 2011

The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO)

(4 pm. – promoted by ek hornbeck)

Today, May 17, 2011, is the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia.  The hope of a day like this is to eradicate its reason for existing.

A life without discrimination is a basic human right.

You may have by now seen the UN Commissioner on Human Rights speaking out against hate crimes and “corrective rape”.

The UNCHR also produced a pamphlet (pdf) called The United Nations Speaks Out:  tackling discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.  I’ve linked to the English version, but the pamphlet is available in multiple languages.

In more than 70 countries, laws make it a crime to be homosexual, exposing millions to the risk of arrest, imprisonment and, in some cases, execution.

UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé posted his own video calling for an end to homophobia and transphobia and the resulting discrimination they cause.

A coalition of groups from Latin America and the Caribbean Launches the Cures that Kill campaign.



The campaign aims at fighting so-called ‘reparative’ therapies which proposes to “cure” sexual and gender diversity.

The As I Am campaign:

We are all different and all unique. It is our differences that complete our humanity. Yet, everywhere daily homophobia and transphobia wants to eradicate the uniqueness in us.

The AS I AM campaign aims at celebrating our individualities, to fight normativity and moral censorship.

The UN is even training their own staff, at places like UNESCO.

3 comments

    • Robyn on May 17, 2011 at 15:21
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    • Robyn on May 17, 2011 at 17:37
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    Press Statement

    Hillary Rodham Clinton

    Secretary of State

    Washington, DC

    May 17, 2011

    In every part of the world, men and women are persecuted and attacked because of who they are or whom they love. Homophobia, transphobia and the brutal hostility associated with them are often rooted in a lack of understanding of what it actually means to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). So to combat this terrible scourge and break the cycle of fear and violence, we must work together to improve education and support those who stand up against laws that criminalize love and promote hate. As we mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia this May 17, let us resolve to redouble our efforts.

    On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am proud to reaffirm our support for LGBT communities at home and abroad, and to call for an end to discrimination and mistreatment of LGBT persons wherever it occurs. Whether by supporting LGBT advocates marching in Belgrade, leading the effort at the United Nations to affirm the human rights of LGBT persons, or condemning a vile law under consideration in Uganda, we are committed to our friends and allies in every region of the world who are fighting for equality and justice. These are not Western concepts; these are universal human rights.

    Despite these gains and hard work, there is more to do to turn the tide of inequality and discrimination against the LGBT community. If you are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, know that the United States stands with you and we are unwavering in our commitment to ending this cycle of hate.

    • Robyn on May 17, 2011 at 22:29
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