International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (or IDAHO) is an opportunity to draw attention to the inequities experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons every day and in every part of the world. It is also a day to recognize and continue the progress that has been made towards achieving LGBT rights.
Heterosexism, homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia create an environment of discrimination and bias, and can both create and sustain policies and practices that place lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons as less than equal with regard to legal rights, economic and educational opportunities, and social status across diverse societies.
In a speech recognizing International Human Rights Day, Secretary Rodham Clinton noted, “Many LGBT Americans have endured violence and harassment in their own lives, and for some, including many young people, bullying and exclusion are daily experiences. So we, like all nations, have more work to do to protect human rights”.
Social workers worldwide understand the importance of educating ourselves and others about heterosexism, homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia – – and working for change and ensuring human rights for all persons. Learn more about how to improve the health, safety, and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals.
