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Toronto – May 14, 2019 – The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT) is celebrated each year on May 17 as a day to speak out against LGBTQI2S discrimination.

The day is meant to bring attention to the struggles faced by members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer, intersex, and two-spirited community around the world. It also coincides with the World Health Organization's 1990 decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental health disorder. 

While equality is protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, many members of the LGBTQI2S community still face discrimination daily. For example, it is estimated that one in six homeless youth in Canada identifies as being part of the LGBTQI2S community.  

That is why UFCW Canada continually works to combat discrimination and create safe workplaces where individuals can be true to themselves. As well, UFCW participates annually in Pride Parades across the country and in events aimed at raising awareness of the homelessness crisis facing LGBTQ12S youth in Canada.

IDAHOT gives us a chance to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBTQ12S peoples globally, and to denounce homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination in all their ugly forms. It also serves as an opportunity to renew our commitment to fighting prejudice and hate in the workplace.

The theme for IDAHOT 2019 focuses on "just and protection for all.” This theme recognizes that while protections for LGBTQ12S people have greatly expanded over the last few decades, 72 countries still criminalize same-sex sexual relations. Accordingly, more reforms are needed to ensure that, around the world, people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sex characteristics have access to justice and appropriate legal protections.

This IDAHOT, let us grow our values in the spirit of solidarity, and work towards a Canada where people of all sexual orientations and identities are welcomed, loved, and empowered.

In solidarity,

Paul R. Meinema

National President