GLLO – International Day Against Homophobia

The International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) began in Canada in 2003 and has been held on May 17 each year since. May 17 was chosen as the date this was the day in 1990 that homosexuality was removed from the World Health Organisation’s International Classification of Diseases.

Surprisingly, many homosexual people adopt homophobic behaviour, hoping it will protect them from prejudice and discrimination. IDHAO aims to reach all groups of society, regardless of their sexual orientation. It should not rest on a ‘victimisation’ philosophy.

In fact, IDAHO may be seen as a great opportunity to highlight positive aspects of homosexuality and celebrate the contribution of the GLBTI community to society.

IDAHO can be a general awareness and call to action to help rally all people to reach out to each other. It has become the prime moment to remind the wider community that homophobia still exists and that worldwide people are still murdered, assaulted, jailed and discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

It is an opportunity which belongs to no one individual. It’s about all people in their everyday environments, taking action and making positive steps for a prejudice-free community, regardless of their sexual orientation.
In Victoria, we recognise that homophobia manifests in many ways. From a policing perspective we see this most commonly in the form of assaults, robberies and property damage.

Victoria Police has partnered with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community organisations to develop an initiative to mark IDAHO 2011. We have taken many great steps to improve relationships with GLBT people, but I know there is more to be done.

What can you do? Simple. Download a copy of the declaration to end homophobia, sign it and display in public areas of your workplaces, sporting clubs and community groups. You may also like to invite local media to be involved. I have signed a declaration on behalf of the Police Gay and Lesbian Advisory Unit.

info: To register and download your own ‘Official Declaration’ to post, visit www.stophomophobiatoday.com or email [email protected] to request a form to be sent directly to you.

By Acting Sergeant Electra Wellens – manager, Gay and Lesbian Advisory Unit.