Today is a particularly important day in the calendar. Today is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. The United Nations (UN) proclaimed this day in 2004, and did not choose 17 May by chance. In today’s post we explain the meaning of these terms, why is celebrated on this date and which is the slogan of this year. Here we go!

Meaning of Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

• Homophobia: rejection of or discrimination against people who are sexually attracted to others of the same sex. However, the everyday use of this term has also been extended to other LGTBIQ+ people, such as bisexuals or transsexuals.
• Biphobia: rejection of or discrimination against people who are attracted to people of the same or opposite sex.

• Transphobia: rejection of or discrimination against people who identify with the opposite sex to that assigned at birth. Such discrimination usually makes no distinction between transgender people who look like the opposite sex and those who have had their sex changed through surgery.

According to a report by the United Nations Development Programme, in countries with authoritarian political regimes, such as China, only 5% of the population dares to live their sexuality openly.

Today, there are still almost 80 jurisdictions in the world that criminalise same-sex relationships. In addition, violence against the LGBTIQ+ community occurs on a daily basis.

Origin of the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

In 2004, the UN decided to name 17 May as the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. They chose these date in commemoration of the removal of homosexuality from the international list of mental illnesses by the General Assembly of the World Health Organisation (WHO) 14 years earlier, in 1990.

This day is an expression of respect for a society that accepts diversity and recognises the rights of individuals regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Theme of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia 2021

The slogan for this year is “Together: resisting, supporting, healing!” The choice of this slogan is also no coincidence. It clearly refers to the context of the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected and continues to affect LGTBIQ+ people in a remarkable way. It has been an increase on domestic and family violence. In addition, there are more difficulties in accessing essential HIV treatment and gender affirming medical services.

People’s human rights must be at the heart of the response to Covid-19. This is why Students Global Relocation is breaking the silence.

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