Marking International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia 2023

We’re flying the inclusive Pride flags from Hove and Brighton Town Halls on Wednesday 17 May to mark this year’s International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBiT).

Created in 2004, IDAHOBiT aims to draw attention to the violence and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer (LGBTQIA+) people to drive positive change and is now celebrated in more than 130 countries around the world.

The date of 17 May was specifically chosen to commemorate the World Health Organisation’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.

Join the Community Vigil in Jubilee Square

Brighton’s LGBTQ+ choir Rainbow Chorus is leading the city’s IDAHOBIT 2023 Community Vigil, starting at 6pm on Wednesday 17 May in Jubilee Square, Brighton, BN1 1GE.

There’ll also be guest speakers. All are welcome to come along to the vigil and show their support.

Local charity Lunch Positive will be providing refreshments on the square, supported by Brighton & Hove City Council’s LGBTQ Workers Forum.

‘Together always: united in diversity’

This year's theme of ‘Together always: united in diversity’ calls for advocacy and celebrations in many forms – from human rights defenders, LGBTQIA+ civil society groups, millions of people in our communities and our allies.

We all work together to challenge negative destructive narratives and promote a healthy inclusive interlinked set of communities.

A spokesperson for the council’s LGBTQ Workers Forum Steering Group said: “As every rain drop raises the ocean, so each act of kindness lifts us into a better place.

“At a time where the hard won progress made by LGBTQIA+ communities in the UK and around the world is increasingly at risk and under organised direct threats, it’s crucial to recognise the power of solidarity, community, and allyship across different identities, movements, and borders.

“By coming together and raising our voices, we have and can make a difference in the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities worldwide.

“If you are LGBTQ+ we call on you to stand by your community.

“If you are allies, we need you to stand with us, now more than ever. None of us are free, until all of us are.

“Join us Wednesday, bring your lovers, friends, family and granny, be fierce, proud and kind.”

IDAHOBiT

Learn more about IDAHOBiT on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia website.