May 17th is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO). In 2013, people and organizations in some 100 countries around the world reported planned activities to the IDAHO International Committee, to be held in remembrance of the Day and of the victims of homophobia and transphobia. We at SPW selected some of the amazing initiatives, which you can see below, and get inspired to take part in this movement.
For more information on IDAHO, please go to www.dayagainsthomophobia.org.
From Korea comes the beautiful choir of the 2013 IDAHO Project “One Fine Day”. Warning: it may cause goosebumps!
The One-week campaign of blogging and tweeting against homophobia in Egypt, starting from the 11th of May will mark the week between the “Egyptian Day against homophobia – Memory of Queen Boat or Cairo 52” till the 17th of May “International Day against homophobia”. On the 11th of May 2011, 52 Gay men were arrested, humiliated, and sent to jail for expressing their sexual orientations and gender identities. Egyptian queer activists believe this day shouldn’t be forgotten not only because it has turned out to be an Egyptian day against homophobia but also because it represents a turning point in their struggle and fight for their rights as Egyptian LGBTs.
In Italy, Progetto Gionata invited groups and individuals all over the country to organize vigils against homophobia and transphobia. The video invitation is worth watching.
Still in Italy, “Renzo e Lucio – Gruppo LGBTS di Lecco” produced a funny short film about a familiar scene. Check it out.
Puerto Rico will be marching against Homophobia and Transphobia this May 17th. By using the hashtag #LGBTPR, the local group LGBT Puerto Rico called people to send pictures of their own invitations to the community, which are now featured in a video. See the call for action here.
Mr. Gay Hong Kong 2013 happened on May 12th, opening IDAHO week, and on Mother’s Day. Read the news about the event here, and check on some more pictures!
It was not just that! About 100 people participated in the International Day Against Homophobia in Causeway Bay, initiated by groups that promote activities in Hong Kong to fight homophobia and transphobia and support gay rights. A government representative present at the gathering informed that the Government will set up a committee to study gay affirmative policies, which was welcomed by participants. Read more.
Ethiopian activists, challenging fear and a hostile environment launched a campaign and a petition for International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. Click on the image below to sign the petition and read more about the campaign here.
Equality Moms from Brazil have made their love for their LGBT kids visible, and are spreading a video through social networks. You can check it out here.
