Posted On: 2024-05-17 12:37:52
17th May is annually observed as International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. The date was selected to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.
The main purpose of this day is to raise awareness of violence, discrimination, and repression of LGBT communities worldwide, which in turn provides an opportunity to take action and engage in dialogue with the media, policymakers, public opinion, and wider civil society.
LGBT+ communities are one of the most marginalised, not only in India but everywhere in the world. It’s important to educate people about their issues, rights and the systematic discrimination they face.
Some of the common problems of the LGBTQ community include Legal Discrimination, Social Discrimination, Family and Community Rejection, Violence, Healthcare Disparities, Employment Discrimination and Intersectional Discrimination.
To observe International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, we would looking what you can do to help the LGBTQ population in your area.
Most people who identify as homosexual, bisexual or transgender are under threat not from the community at large, but from their families as well. They might have to run away for their own safety. Shelter homes act as a protective net for them, but they are underfunded and few in number. You can donate to these shelters or build one in your local area.
Social Media has been helpful in raising awareness about queer identities. There are more people in support now than ever before, but at the same time, social media is also being used to radicalise the youth through misinformation and fear-mongering. It is important to teach children about queer people so that they can think for themselves and be immune to ‘pink scare’.
Locker room talks are filled with queerphobia. The first step to bring out a change is to challenge everyday language. Correct your friends if they use a slur knowingly or unknowingly. This kind of action would create a comfortable environment for queer people in general.
Besides shelter homes, they are many organisations that are trying to make the life of queer people better in their own ways like educating people, providing healthcare and fighting for their rights. You can donate to these organisations or volunteer for them. Some organisations fighting for LGBTQ rights are Humsafar Trust, Naz Foundation and Queer Ink.
You can be of great help by educating yourself and checking your own biases and prejudices. By fully understanding queer issues, you can be an advocate for them and be of great help.
Filaantro, along with Child Help Foundation, have held ration kit distribution and medical health camps for transgender numerous times, which shed light on their issues. If there is a LGBTQ+ NGO or an individual looking for help, feel free to contact Filaantro.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Make sure to share it with all your friends and family members.
Author: Adil Sayyad
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