Each year on the 17th of May, people around the world mark IDAHOBIT – the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.
IDAHOBIT is not just symbolic. It’s an extremely powerful day that reminds us that LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights, and that real equality still needs our collective attention.
What is IDAHOBIT and Why Is It Important?
IDAHOBIT was first created in 2004 to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder back in 1990. While that may feel like a distant milestone, discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) is sadly still a lived reality for many – including in the UK.
This global awareness day now spans over 130 countries (including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal), and continues to evolve as a grassroots movement for justice, visibility, and inclusion. The goal? To inspire action from governments, businesses, communities, and the general population.
This year’s theme, “No one left behind: equality, freedom, and justice for all” is a powerful rallying call. It’s another stark reminder that true allyship is more than just rainbow logos during the month of June – it’s about meaningful change, and leaving no one behind.
The Reality of LGBTQIA+ Discrimination
Despite progress in legal protections and public attitudes, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia still affect people’s lives every day. Research from Stonewall found that one in five LGBTQIA+ people and two in five trans people have experienced a hate crime due to their identity.
In workplaces, too, bias persists. A 2023 study by Deloitte revealed that only half (52%) of LGBTQIA+ employees in the UK are comfortable to be out in the workplace. And for those who are, many still experience subtle or overt discrimination.
That’s why IDAHOBIT matters – because visibility changes hearts and minds, and pressure changes policy.
How UK Workplaces Can Mark IDAHOBIT
Recently, we’ve witnessed a worrying shift with many larger companies in the US dismantling their DEI initiatives. It’s vital that the UK does not follow this same path.
Here at Aspiring to Include, we’re firm believers that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential. Not only is it the right thing to do, but companies that are truly inclusive perform better, attract stronger talent, and retain their people.
So how can UK organisations acknowledge IDAHOBIT meaningfully?
As always, education comes first. Host a lunch-and-learn, invite LGBTQIA+ speakers to share their experiences, or run internal campaigns that explain why this day exists. Create safe spaces for dialogue and questions – especially for those who are still learning.
Small gestures, like raising a pride flag or updating your intranet with LGBTQIA+ resources, also matter – as long as they’re part of a broader, year-round strategy for inclusion.
And remember: visibility is important, but it has to be backed by action. Policy reviews, anti-discrimination training, and support for employee resource groups (ERGs) are all practical steps that show commitment.
“There’s no neutral position when it comes to inclusion – you’re either contributing to the solution or staying part of the problem.”
Lived Experiences: Why IDAHOBIT Matters More than Ever in the UK
We often think of the UK as a progressive place for LGBTQIA+ people, and in many ways it is. But even here, lived experiences are mixed.
Take trans healthcare, for example. Wait times for gender identity clinics can stretch over five years, and public discourse around trans rights has become increasingly toxic. Biphobia is still widely misunderstood, and non-binary identities are often erased from official data.
Conversion therapy is astonishingly still a legal practice in the UK and the numbers are a disgrace. According to the Government’s LGBT Survey (the largest such survey in the world to date), 7% of LGBT+ people have been offered conversion therapy. This figure rises to 10% for asexual people and 13% for trans people.
For LGBTQIA+ people of colour, the challenges are even greater, as racism intersects with queerphobia. And for those with disabilities, accessing inclusive spaces – both physically and emotionally – remains a major barrier.
That’s why IDAHOBIT isn’t just for global activism. It’s a reminder to look inward, too – at our own workplaces, communities, and behaviours.
Why IDAHOBIT Is for Everyone – Not Just the LGBTQIA+ Community
If you’re not LGBTQIA+ yourself, you might wonder whether this day is really for you. The short answer is: absolutely.
Allyship isn’t passive – it’s about showing up. Whether it’s challenging a dodgy joke in the breakroom, advocating for inclusive hiring practices, or simply educating yourself on issues you didn’t face growing up, every action matters.
IDAHOBIT offers a great opportunity to do just that – to ask, “What more can I do to make others feel safe and seen?” And if you’re an employer, it’s a time to lead by example and lead the charge in creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.
How Can You Take Part?
There are loads of ways to mark IDAHOBIT, whether you’re part of a company, a school, or acting individually.
You could:
- Run a social media campaign celebrating LGBTQIA+ voices
- Share resources that help others learn about LGBTQIA+ rights
- Host a workplace coffee chat or panel discussion
- Donate to organisations like Stonewall, Mermaids, or Galop that support LGBTQIA+ communities year-round
Whatever you choose, the goal is the same – visibility, solidarity, and action.
Final Thoughts: Making IDAHOBIT Matter All Year Round
IDAHOBIT is a day to pause, reflect, and raise your voice. But the work doesn’t stop on the 18th of May. Building a world where equality, freedom and justice really do apply to all means taking daily action.
Let this year’s theme – “No one left behind” – inspire you to look around and ask: who’s missing from this conversation? Who’s being spoken over, left out, or dismissed?
Let’s make sure we show up not just today, but every. single. day.
Check out the official IDAHOBIT website for up-to-date news and information.
