Take Rainbow Action this May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT)
Toronto – May 14, 2025 – On May 17, the world will mark International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) — a global moment to stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQI+ communities and spotlight the urgent need to confront hate and discrimination.
Created in 2004, IDAHOBIT seeks to raise awareness of the discrimination and violence that is experienced by two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (2SLGBTQI+) persons around the world. The commemorative date of May 17 also coincides with the 1990 World Health Organization (WHO) decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness.
This year, the call to action is more pressing than ever. Around the world, including here in Canada, we are witnessing an alarming surge in anti-2SLGBTQI+ hate, from the spread of gender-critical ideologies to a wave of discriminatory policies targeting trans and queer communities.
It is no secret that Pride organizations from coast to coast have been the targets of homophobic and transphobic hate and violence, and these attacks are irrefutably connected to larger, global efforts of alt-right and white supremacist organizing. These attacks are increasing in size and frequency across the country.
Workers United Against Hate
The Canadian Labour Congress is continuing their campaign to challenge anti-2SLGBTQI+ hate: Workers United Against Hate. Workers and unions have always understood that the harassment and violence that impact 2SLGBTQI+ workers either on the shop floor and in our communities are trade union issues. As conservative leaders attempt to divide our country by scapegoating 2SLGBTQI+ communities, workers together are proudly uniting against hate.
Access Campaign Resources here:
- Sample Social Media Posts for IDAHOBIT
- Shareable Graphics for IDAHOBIT
- We Keep Each Other Safe: A Guide for Unions to Address Anti-2SLGBTQI+ Hate
- Workers In Transition: A Practical Guide for Union Representatives and Trans Union Members
Take Rainbow Action
This year, Egale is calling on everyone to take “rainbow action” as we face an exponential rise in anti-2SLGBTQI+ hate. Visit Egale’s Rainbow Action centre to learn how to take rainbow action: attend free webinars, learning how to combat misinformation, plan for safety amid rising hate, craft inclusive messaging and more.
Visit egale.ca/idahobit for resources.
