International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia & Transphobia
IDAHOBIT is observed annually on 17th May to raise awareness of the discrimination and violence faced by LGBTQ+ people around the world. The date commemorates the World Health Organisation’s decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder in 1990. It’s a day for promoting inclusion, celebrating LGBTQ+ identities, and standing up against hate and stigma.
Activities:
“Ally Action Cards”: Students create small cards with messages of support for the LGBTQ+ community, such as “You are loved,” “Love is love,” or “Be proud of who you are.”
Rainbow Bracelet or Badge Making: Use the rainbow or trans/non-binary flag colours to create supportive symbols students can wear.
LGBTQ+ Flag Hunt: Hide mini pride flags around the school with fun facts or ally tips attached.
“What Is an Ally?” Workshop: Explore what it means to be an ally, using case studies or role-play to discuss real-life scenarios.
“Pride Heroes” Research Activity: Students choose and research LGBTQ+ figures (e.g., Marsha P. Johnson, Alan Turing, Lil Nas X, Laverne Cox), then create mini posters or fact files.
Walk in my shoes: have students write out their experiences which ca be read out during form or shared online
Whole-School Awareness Ideas:
Assembly or Video Presentation: Cover what homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia are, why IDAHOBIT exists, and how everyone can help create a safer, more inclusive world.
Form Time Discussion Topics:
Why is representation important?
How do words and actions affect others?
What should I do if I hear or see something hurtful?
Display Board: Showcase pride flags, student art, inspiring quotes, and myth-busting facts to raise awareness and promote allyship.
Wear Rainbow Day: Encourage staff and students to wear rainbow colours as a show of solidarity.
Kindness & Pronoun Respect Campaign: Promote inclusive language and respecting everyone’s identity and pronouns.
Social Media Ideas:
Flag Education Posts: Explain the different pride flags (e.g., bisexual, transgender, non-binary).
“Did You Know?” Carousel:
Share facts about LGBTQ+ history
The importance of IDAHOBIT
Real-world impact of discrimination
Ally Quotes or Affirmations:
“Everyone deserves to feel safe.”
“Being an ally starts with listening.”
“Silence helps hate—speak up.”Student-Created Art or Messages: Feature anonymised artwork or quotes from students promoting love, respect, and inclusion.
Hashtags to Use:
#IDAHOBIT
#LoveIsLove
#LGBTQInclusion
#NoToHate
#PrideInSchool
#BeAnAlly