Yarra City Council brings the LGBTIQA+ community and allies together for IDAHOBIT 2024.

May 17 marks IDAHOBIT (International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Transphobia and Intersex Discrimination) and brings together millions of people all over the world to unite against discrimination and work toward a more inclusive future.

This day is an opportunity to reflect on the significant contributions and enduring resilience of the LGBTIQA+ community. It also serves as a call to action to eradicate the harassment and oppression experienced by LGBTIQA+ communities.

Yarra City Council marked this year’s occasion with a queer history walking tour based on our Queer-ways Mural in Fitzroy and led by community elder Tex McKenzie, as well as a flag raising and breakfast event with a drag performance by D-Flowers.

Yarra Youth Services hosted an afternoon tea and friendship bracelet making session, welcoming young LGBTIQA+ people and allies to connect and celebrate in a safe and inclusive space.

Yarra City Council Mayor Edward Crossland highlights the importance of IDAHOBIT and the existing allyship the community and councillors have with local LGBTIQA+ people, groups and businesses of Yarra.

“Yarra is one of the primary centres for queer business and community in Australia, and we’re committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming city where everyone is treated with respect and acceptance. Members of the LGBTIQA+ community deserve the right to be their true selves, and to be proud of who they are.”

“While we have made significant advancements in LGBTIQA+ equality there is still plenty more work to do. Today’s raising of the flag serves as a symbol of Councils’ solidarity and steadfast commitment to continue to work toward a future where LGBTIQA+ discrimination and prejudice has no place in Yarra, Australia and globally.”

The safety, inclusion, and empowerment of the LGBTIQA+ community is an unwavering priority for Council. This is actively reflected in our LGBTIQA+ Strategy and its campaigns including our “Queer Is…” visibility campaign, which was recently shortlisted for an LGPro Award for Excellence in April 2024.

Our facilitation of numerous LGBTIQA+ support groups and events, such as the annual Victoria’s Pride Street Party, and our dedication to supporting and nurturing LGBTIQA+ sites and spaces are all ways in which we show our commitment to celebrating diversity and promoting LGBTIQA+ inclusivity.

Visit Rainbow Yarra to find out more about how Council is supporting the local LGBTIQA+ community.