The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT), a worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversity, is commemorated annually on 17 May. This year’s theme is families, focusing on the role of families in the well-being of LGBTI people and respect of the rights of LGBTI families.

Michel Sidibé, the Executive Director of UNAIDS (The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS ) said “Many young gay and transgender people are rejected by their families, living on the streets, facing all types of discrimination and violence. This is not the path to healthy and productive societies. We must encourage inclusion and compassion and ensure that networks of support are in place, including access to essential health and social services. In many health-care settings, LGBTI people find it difficult to access quality health services free from discrimination, making them more vulnerable to HIV and less likely to access treatment and care.

To find out more, check out http://dayagainsthomophobia.org/#