On May 17, we celebrate IDAHOT – the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia. The date this year marks the 26th anniversary of the World Health Organisation’s declassification of homosexuality as a mental illness.
Some facts from across the world:
- Only 18 countries in the world have full marriage equality
- There are still 76 countries where same-sex sexual activities are illegal
- In up to 10 countries, the penalty for homosexuality can include death
In Australia:
- LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and/or questioning) Australians make up 11 % of the population
- In 2011, there were over 6000 children in Australia living in same-sex couple families.
- LGBTIQ people are three times more likely to experience depression compared to non-LGBTIQ people
- Around 61% of same-sex attracted and gender-questioning adolescents have experienced verbal abuse because of their sexuality. 18% report having experienced physical abuse
CSU Library staff are proud allies of LGBTIQ people and we’re using the day to draw attention to the discrimination still faced by same sex attracted, intersex and gender diverse people, and to celebrate sexual diversity and gender diversity. To find out more, read about IDAHOT’s global campaign, and to find an ally here at CSU, check out our Network of Allies.