Created in 2004, the purpose of International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia is to draw the attention of policymakers, opinion leaders, social movements, the public and the media to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTI people internationally. The reason why May 17 was chosen is because that's the day the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder in 1990.
As of 2014 International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia is celebrated in more than 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal.
Samaritanmag found 9 Ways People are supporting International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia today. Here they are:
1) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to introduce legislation "that will help ensure transgender and other gender-diverse people can live according to their gender identity, free from discrimination, and protected from hate propaganda and hate crimes."
2) Toronto Mayor John Tory hosted a breakfast for community leaders in addition to a rainbow flag raising noon event at City Hall.
3) Organization Human Rights First created the "Voices for Equality: IDAHOT" video.
4) The UN Refugee Agency flew the rainbow flag over its headquarters.
5) The UN has also been promoting its Free & Equal #WhyWeFight equality campaign throughout the day.
6) U.S. President Barack Obama made a statement "reaffirming the dignity and inherent worth of all people, regardless of who they love or their gender identity."
7) Russian IDAHOT supporters held an unsanctioned rally in St. Petersburg, risking violence and legal repercussions to release pride balloons.
8) Rainbow flags are being flown at a number of international landmarks like Australia's Brisbane Bridge as an act of IDAHOT solidarity.
9) This rainbow flashmob video from Zaporizhia, Ukraine.
Watch a video explaining what International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia is about
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