The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) represents an annual landmark to draw the attention of decision makers, the media, the public, opinion leaders and local authorities to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTQ+ people internationally.
This year’s theme is Together: Resisting, Supporting, Healing.
Why 17 May?
The date of 17 May was specifically chosen to commemorate the World Health Organisation's decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. The day is now celebrated in more than 130 countries and unites millions of people in support of the recognition of human rights for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
About IDAHOBIT
IDAHOBIT was first created in 2004 to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ people and highlight inequality.
Bethan Rogoyski, Chair of the DMU LGBTQ+ and Allies Network Group said: “IDAHOBIT is an important day for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond as a way to stand against homophobia, biphobia, intersexism and transphobia; reflect on its impact in the LGBTQ+ community; and reignite our commitment to equality. A year of lockdowns has been devastating for many and has been exceptionally isolating, which is why this year’s theme of ‘Together: Resisting, Supporting, Healing’ is so important. Please join us in celebrating and supporting diversity on IDAHOBIT.”
To mark IDAHOBIT, join LGBTQ+ and Allies Staff Network on Monday 17 May 2021, 12pm-1pm for an informal discussion where colleagues can have an open and safe space to talk, listen and share experience. Please do come along and show your support, even if you just want to listen.
If you would like to attend, please contact equality@dmu.ac.uk to register and receive your joining instructions. Please also e-mail this address if you would like to join the staff network group.
How to report homophobia, biphobia, intersexism and transphobia and support available
Students:
Additionally, DMU’s No Space for Hate project reinforces our commitment to challenge inappropriate behaviours and provide practical support to students who are victims, survivors or witnesses of hate or harassment. This comprises of a policy, website, anonymous reporting tool, a specialised service which outlines support and reporting options, specialist staff within Security and new mandatory training for staff involved in the disciplinary process.
Staff:
DMU is proud of its diverse staff and student community and is committed to providing a working and learning environment that enriches lives, supports individuals to reach their full potential, and where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our Dignity at Work policy, which you can access here, outlines our commitment to this and routes through which you can report homophobia, biphobia, intersexism and transphobia.
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) delivered, by Health Assured, is a completely confidential, free of charge service for all DMU employees, which operates a 24-hour service.
If you need someone to talk to, you can contact the EAP through the online portal.
To log in to this portal, please use:
Username: dmu
Password: dmu
Or by calling 0800 716 017.
Posted on Thursday 13 May 2021