As your Director for LGBTQ2+ members on the PSAC Atlantic Regional Council, I will soon be joining many PSAC members and allies across Canada and people around the world to recognize the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. I would like to take this time to celebrate our diversity and bring attention to LGBTQ2+ rights as human rights.
The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is held every year on May 17 with events both Nationally and Internationally. This important date is used to promote the day and to lobby officials to show recognition on May 17.
The History and importance of this date labelled as “Gay Day” a very long time ago in Germany was written in the format of 17.5 and had a natural affinity with the penal Code 175, the rule dealing with homosexuality (homosexuals were called “one hundred seventy-fivers”).
The concept of the day was conceived in 2004. The International Day Against Homophobia was launched commemorating May 17 as the day to advocate sensible public policy regarding LGBTQ2+ people.
There are over 120 countries that celebrate May 17 and draw attention to the violence and discrimination that LGBTQ2+ people face on a daily basis around the world.
The atrocities in 2018 are still happening around the world against the LGBTQ2+ community and continues to be horrific. In some countries, members of the GLBT communities are prosecuted, thrown in jail and even killed based on their sexual orientation.
Let’s keep working together in ensuring a more inclusive society for every human being.
In solidarity
Wayne Kelley
PSAC Atlantic Director for LGBTQ2+ members
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