Although Wolverhampton’s events are limited this year in line with Government social distancing guidance during the coronavirus outbreak, a virtual #IDAHOT flag will be raised on the council’s social media channels to mark the occasion.
The date 17 May was chosen to commemorate the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the international classification of diseases.
It has been marked on this day every year around the world since 2005 to raise awareness of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender rights, and to end discrimination based on sexuality and gender identity, creating a fairer, more equal society.
Councillor Anwen Muston, one of the founder members of the Wolverhampton Equality and Diversity Partnership, said: “#IDAHOT is a global celebration of sexual and gender diversities, raising awareness of discrimination, prejudice and persecution faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) people all over the world.
“Being out and proud as a LGBT+ person is not a life choice, being who you are is important to our health and wellbeing. We can’t help the way we were born, we can either be happy or we can hide away and be unhappy and never reach our true potential in life.
“I was always taught you should show respect if you want respect in return, those who demand respect should give respect and not manifest hatred and intolerance towards others.
“The council continues work with partners and local organisations to explore how education can play a part in bringing together communities, and to understand what can be done to help end prejudice against the LGBT+ community.”
