Brighton is set to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) with a community‑led vigil on Sunday, 17 May, as LGBTQ+ organisations and supporters gather in the city centre.
This year's theme is “At the heart of democracy” and the event will take place at 1.30pm on the steps of the Unitarian Church on New Road and is open to all members of the public. Organisers are encouraging people to bring friends, flags and noise‑makers to ensure the city is visibly represented during the global day of action.
IDAHOBIT is observed annually on 17 May and is recognised worldwide as a moment of solidarity for LGBTQ+ communities. The date marks the anniversary of the World Health Organisation’s decision in 1990 to remove homosexuality from its list of mental health disorders.
The Brighton event is being supported by the LGBTQ Workers Forum, which has been offered a short speaking slot during the vigil. Organisers are inviting anyone connected to the forum who would like to speak to come forward and represent them, with speakers reflecting on the meaning and importance of IDAHOBIT within their own communities and workplaces.
As well as speakers, volunteers are also being sought to help hold and wave large LGBTQ+ flags and banners during the vigil. Organisers said the flags are lightweight and easy to handle, and that their presence helps create a strong visual show of support in the heart of the city.
IDAHOBIT is described by its international organisers as a decentralised global mobilisation, rather than a single campaign. Individuals and groups are free to mark the day in ways that reflect their own priorities, while remaining linked by a shared international theme and date.
This year’s global theme and downloadable visual resources are available via may17.org, allowing communities to share messaging across social media and networks.
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