ACON is helping to bring communities and people together to tackle prejudice as part of a range of activities it is supporting to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT) on Tuesday, May 17.

As NSW’s leading HIV prevention, HIV support and LGBTI health organisation, ACON will support 10 groups and organisations throughout NSW for IDAHOT through the provision of a small grants scheme that aims to focus attention on the impact that homophobia, transphobia and biphobia has on the health and wellbeing of young people.

In its fourth year of providing support, 5 metro and 5 regional events will receive a $500 grant to go towards recognising the important day and promoting the message that young LGBTI people need to be protected from homophobic and transphobic-motivated prejudice, harassment, violence and discrimination.

“Despite significant progress made over recent years in fostering a more inclusive society here in Australia, many LGBTI Australians continue to be targets, of homophobic and transphobic behaviour,” says Nicolas Parkhill, ACON CEO.

“Indeed, just because of their sexuality or gender identity, many Australians are separated from family and friends, harassed in their workplace or on the sporting field, abused by their neighbours or assaulted on the street. This is why IDAHOT has been capturing the interest of more and more people right across NSW.”

“Reaching out to not only metro but regional areas of NSW is of particular importance as lived experiences of homophobia and transphobia can vary in terms of severity and frequency in regions and the country compared to cities. We have to let every member of the LGBTI community know, wherever they are, that they are loved and valued.”

IDAHOT takes place every year on May 17, the day in 1990 that homosexuality was removed from the World Health Organisation’s International Classification of Diseases. Celebrated in over 130 countries, IDAHOT, aims to unite millions of people in support of the recognition of human rights for all, irrespective of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

To apply for one of the grants, fill out the application form that can be found at www.acon.org.au/idahot-grants

For more information about the grants contact Raquel Lowe, ACON’s Community Health Promotion Officer:
(02) 9206 2067 or rlowe@acon.org.au

Applications close May 2nd.