May 17th, 2023

May 17 is recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. It was created in 2004 to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by:

  • Two Spirit
  • Lesbian
  • Gay
  • Bisexual
  • Transgender
  • Intersex people
  • All other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics

Also on May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder. This year’s theme is “Together Always: United in our Diversity”. It encourages everyone to recognize the power of solidarity, community, and allyship and work together to bring about change.

In the WRDSB

As a community, WRDSB’s priority is to ensure all students feel safe and welcomed, so we commit to actively addressing homophobia, transphobia and biphobia. This safeguarding means taking intentional actions in response to violence and discrimination against 2SLGBTQIA+ people. We have a responsibility to foster inclusive learning environments where all student and staff rights are protected and their identities valued.

However, as a community, we must keep in mind that learning is the beginning of the steps needed to ensure that WRDSB spaces are safe for 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff and families. We must continually commit to learning, unlearning and then taking action to support and create new and more inclusive spaces.

How You Can Learn More

Educating ourselves is one action we can take to understand, identify and disrupt homophobia, transphobia and biphobia.

Learn more about the human rights challenges facing 2SLGBTQIA+ people everywhere: