IDAHOBIT to be celebrated on Wednesday in Echuca

People across Australia and around the globe will take a stance against discrimination and raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ rights violations that are still present.

IDAHOBIT marks the anniversary of May 17, 1990, when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems.

Discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals is still an issue in Australia. IDAHOBIT’s website states that “68 per cent of LGBTQIA+ employees are not out to everyone at work”, “two in three LGBTQIA+ youth experience abuse due to their identity”, and “35 per cent of LGBTQIA+ Australians have experienced verbal abuse in the past 12 months”.

Campaspe Shire Council has planned a community event to celebrate IDAHOBIT and show the welcoming support of the LGBTQIA+ community in Echuca Moama.

At Echuca’s Hopwood Gardens, a flag-raising and several speeches will be held from 10.30am to 11.30am.

All are welcome to participate to show their support.

Echuca Moama Pride Group representative Steven Andrews said the event would be a good opportunity for local residents to show their support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

“Whether you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community or you’re an ally, everyone is welcome to attend and show their support for inclusion and stand against LGBTQIA+ discrimination, not just in our local area, but everywhere,” Mr Andrews said.

Council will also raise the pride flag in front of council offices in Echuca on the day.

Council will illuminate the front of the offices with rainbow colours on the evenings of May 16 and May 17.

“Discrimination has no place in our community. We must all work together to ensure everyone can live without fear of persecution or violence,” Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos said.

“On this important day, we invite the community to join us to reflect on the challenges faced by our LGBTQIA+ community and to reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.”