A worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversity
What is IDAHOT?
IDAHOT is the most commonly used acronym for the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. May 17 was first known as the “International Day against Homophobia” and mainstreamed through its acronym “I.D.A.HO”. In 2009, Transphobia was added explicitly in the title of the name, in the recognition of the very different issues at stake between sexual orientation and gender expression. “IDAHOT” became another popular acronym used alongside the initial one. Since 2015, biphobia is added to the title, to acknowledge the specific issues faced by bisexual people. A new acronym, IDAHOBIT, has started to be used by groups in Australia and the UK mostly.
In Canada, the acronyms IDAHO and IDAHOT are most commonly used.
History of IDAHOT
Since 2005, May 17th has been dedicated to the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, marking the day in 1990 when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.
It constitutes an annual landmark to draw the attention of decision makers, the media, the public, opinion leaders and local authorities to the violence and discrimination experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ people internationally.
May 17 is now celebrated in more than 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal, with 1600 events reported from 1280 organizations in 2014. These mobilisations unite millions of people in support of the recognition of human rights for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is not one centralised campaign; rather it is a moment that everyone can take advantage of to take action.
You can find out more about the global campaign at Day Against Homophobia.
PFLAG London ON and IDAHOT
This day is an important one to the members of PFLAG London ON and as part of our work in the London community we hold a celebration every year to recognize this day.