Introduction
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) is observed annually on 17th May. This date holds historical significance as it commemorates the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation (WHO) removed homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases. IDAHOBIT serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against discrimination and the importance of celebrating diversity and freedom.
Founded in 2004, IDAHOBIT was established to raise awareness of the violence, discrimination, and repression experienced by LGBT+ individuals globally. It is a day that unites people across the world to stand against prejudice and to promote the rights and well-being of the LGBT+ community. IDAHOBIT is not just a day of reflection but also a call to action, where individuals and institutions are urged to commit to creating a society where everyone can live freely and authentically.
'No one left behind'
In 2024, the theme is "No one left behind". In the UK, although many people in the British Gay & Lesbian communities enjoy greater rights & acceptance than ever before, the wider LGBTQI+ community still have significant legal and societal barriers in their daily lives. Only as one community can we all move forward. As the may17.org website says - "this year's IDAHOBIT theme is a call for unity: only through solidarity for each other will we create a world without injustice, where no one is left behind".
IDAHOBIT also marks the beginning of Pride Season, a period of vibrant celebrations, parades, and events that mark the LGBTQI+ community's history, achievements, and diversity. However, Pride began as, and still is a protest, striving for the rights of everyone in our community and around the world.
As the rainbow flags start to appear on streets and homes around the UK, the 17th May reminds us that there is still so much more to do.
At Advancing Analytics, we have a diverse team where sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression is an important part of bringing our whole selves to the workplace. One of our core values is "come as you are". This reflects the importance of bringing diverse identities, thoughts and viewpoints into the business, and our LGBTQI+ employee community is an important part of that.
