International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

When: Wed 17 May 2017 00:00-11:59
Where: SOAS JCR

May 17th marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia – a day in which LGBTQ people around the world come together to celebrate our victories and raise awareness of the injustices still facing our communities.

Today it is important not just to look at the problems facing our own community, but at the international issues that rarely get the attention they deserve. In 74 countries it remains illegal to be lesbian, gay, trans or bisexual – with 10 countries issuing the death penalty for these so-called crimes.

Of these 74 countries the majority are former colonies where local populations were subjected to European ‘anti-sodomy’ laws during the colonial era. A total of 41 countries continue to enforce the remnants of British laws enacted during this time. In countries such as India, Nigeria, Jamaica and Kenya millions still live under cruel laws, which punish individuals simply for being who they are.

As the UK this year marks 50 years since the partial decriminalization of homosexuality it is important to remember that the fight still goes on. Although these laws were abolished in our own countries they continue to lead to the marginalization and death of millions of people across the world. Today we stand in solidarity and support with all people across the world criminalized for their sexuality, and mark the role our country played in the globalized oppression of LGBTQ people.

For more information:

Kaleidoscope Trust http://kaleidoscopetrust.com/

IDAHOT http://dayagainsthomophobia.org/

76 Crimes https://76crimes.com/

ILGA http://ilga.org/

GATE http://transactivists.org/