May 17: The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
The JLP recognizes May 17, International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia was created in 2004 to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexuals, transgender, intersex people and all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, or sex characteristics.
May 17 was selected in 2004 as the Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia because on that day in 1990 the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder.
In a Canadian context, the Prime Minister and all party leaders offered an official apology in 2017 for the discrimination and persecution perpetrated by the government against people suspected of homosexuality. Public-service employees were particularly targeted during the Cold War, as they were viewed as potential security risks. Public service, RCMP and military careers were destroyed when the government accused thousands of the crime of “sexual abnormality,” often with little or no evidence.
The JLP is proud to help foster a diverse and discrimination-free public service. Through its various workshops and guided discussions, the JLP fosters diversity and inclusion, respect for differences, the fight against discrimination and the prevention of harassment and violence against LGBTQ2+ people.
Photo by Delia Giandeini on Unsplash