Today, May 17, is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT). On 17 May 1990, the World Health Organization (WHO) decided to no longer classify homosexuality as a disease. Since 2004, this has been commemorated around the world on IDAHOT Day.
Despite significant progress and rapid developments in some areas, homophobia and transphobia remain a major problem across Stockholm County. Results from UngKab15, showed that 16 % of young people consider themselves to be of a sexual orientation other than heterosexual and that 1 in 100 consider themselves to be transgender. UngKab15 also showed that one in two people who did not want to categorize themselves according to the binary gender system had experienced discrimination or felt harassed because of their gender identity/expression. There are many examples of how people who are open about their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression are subjected to various forms of harassment and discrimination.
Image: Statistics from UngKab15.
Celebrating IDAHOT Day on May 17 is a small step towards equal rights and opportunities for all - regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. RFSL Stockholm conducts policy and information activities, organizes different types of training and provides target groups with different types of support. We also invite people to inspiring members' evenings, organize youth activities Egalia and activities for newcomers, arrange a summer party (31 May) and arrange an annual trans theme day. We also make sure that there are exciting activities during Stockholm Pride. And much, much more.
You are welcome to contact us at in**@************sl.se if you have questions or want to get involved!
