May 17: International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Transphobia

Every year on May 17^th, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia is honoured. The day was created in 2004 to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Intersex, and Asexual people, and all people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and sex characteristics. May 17^th was chosen to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder, on May 17^th 1990.

In recognition of the diversity across 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, this year’s theme is ‘Together always: United in diversity.”

Resources:

Learn

Learn more about May 17th, about homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia and the impacts they have at the May 17^th website or from Fondation Émergence.

Learn about terminology, inclusive language, and how to be supportive of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities from:

CK Pride’s website – scroll down for quick tips

Spectrum’s website

Diversity Ed website

Pride at Work website

5 Ways you can support 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the workplace on the Municipality’s Economic Development Youtube channel.

Upcoming Webinar: June 7th, 1PM Celebrating and Elevating 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities for allies, 2SLGBTQIA+ members, and everyone. Offered by Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion.

Supports

CK Gay Pride Association: https://www.ckpride.com/ (local social and educational events)

Trans Wellness Ontario: https://www.transwellness.ca/ (low barrier access to a variety of services for members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, their friends, and families)

PFLAG Canada: https://pflagcanada.ca/ (support for 2SLGBTQIA+ families and loved ones)