May 17 marks the International Day Against HOmophobia and transphobia (IDAHO). This year's theme is ‘End Transphobia: Respect Gender Identity,' which, right now, is particularly crucial for Alberta. This day has been chosen as it marks the anniversary of the day in 1990 when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses.
Countries all over the world will take part in this day through various initiatives which will make a strong impact on decision makers. One of these great initiatives is the IDAHO challenge by Gays.com and the Committee for the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (see the video at the end of this post). Basically, as you will see, the idea is to step out in front of the camera and, in your own language, introduce yourself, state where you're from and how proud you are to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. I think its great, it will provide visibility to an otherwise invisible population.
Right now there are a few reasons why this day is of particular importance. Since December approximately sixty gay Iraqi's have been killed (BBC News). Very recently, the province of Alberta (Canada) has removed gender reassignment surgeries from the provincial budget, leaving the lives of many transgender people in uncertainty. The struggle for marriage equality in the United States. And, the fact that people experience homophobia everyday is reason enough for IDAHO.
The success of IDAHO depends on you and me, lets make it the best one to date! We can do this by getting involved in our communities and participating in projects like the IDAHO Challenge.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." -- Margaret Mead
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