The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, held on May 17 every year, is a rallying event offering an opportunity for people to get together and reach out to one another. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles, but also the resiliency, of the LGBT2SQ+ communities.
The 2017 campaign for the Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia highlights the realities and challenges faced by trans people. No matter what gender they identify as, everyone is different and deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
This day is a chance to:
- Talk openly the ongoing affects of homophobia and transphobia
- Organize and rally against homobphobia and transphobia
- Use hastags to build awareness including #idahot and #nomatterthegender
- Celebrate the amazing diversity we have when it comes to our sexuality and gender
If you or someone you know is dealing with homophobia or transphobia, it’s important to talk with someone you trust. This could include a phone line like the Klinic Crisis Line – 1-888-322-3019 or (204) 786-8686 (24 hours). It provides counselling, support and information for people in crisis or distress. You can also check out the Rainbow Resource Centre.
Rainbow provides counselling services and youth programming including PPY and Camp Aurora