May 17 is IDAHOBIT Day, which stands for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia, and is an opportunity to show support towards our LGBTQIA+ community.
How can you showcase your support to the LGBTQIA+ community in just one day a year? Well, to let you in on a secret, advocacy can be done all year round, that’s 365 days a year!
Everyone has a role to play in educating yourself and advocating for tolerance for all members in our community and here are some actionable steps you can take to embrace IDAHOBIT Day this year!
1. Wear a Rainbow!
Displaying or wearing a rainbow pin, lanyard, pronoun pin, or many other options signals to others that you’ll respect their LGBTQIA+ identity. You don’t have to be a member of the community; this is an ally friendly option and greatly encouraged!
Find more great information and resources here if you're just getting started!
2. Attend an activity with an open heart
People can come together to learn, create or just socialise within a safe space is a great way to rally support and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community!
You can even attend one of the great events we have running here at Yarra Plenty Regional Library!
Find more resources for attending and hosting activities by clicking here.
3. Build your knowledge
Learn more about the LGBTQIA+ community, with this excellent list of resources. Whether you want to learn how to support your local LGTBTQIA+ community, or get a better understanding of gender and sexuality, there are many excellent building blocks to creating a more inclusive and safer environment and you can always ask your local library staff member for more resources!
!Bonus Tip!
Arm yourself with knowledge! The greatest way to support the LGBTQIA+ community is to seek first-hand information from members of the community. Whether it be books, documentaries, or sit-down discussions with people that are happy to discuss their experiences.
Remember, the more we understand and learn about each other, the greater we will be able to support and respect those that face challenges and discrimination due to their gender identity and sexuality!
Events hosted by YPRL for IDAHOBIT day:
Drag Trivia at Thomastown Library 6PM-8PM
Trivia enthusiasts, drag fans and everyone in between, grab your friends or make some new ones at Drag Trivia for IDAHOBIT. Everyone is welcome to this evening of laughter, creativity, and exercise for your brain.
Get here early and create your own pride or pronoun badge in our Maker Space!
Rock it and Roll for IDAHOBIT Day at Whittlesea Library 7PM-8.30PM
Dance and sing to celebrate the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia.
Be entertained by Dame Cara Lynn, sing karaoke and learn how to rock and roll dance.
Presented in partnership with the City of Whittlesea and Lions Club.
Check out some of these other blogs written by our proud LGBTQIA+ staff, for great information and book lists to get you started:
Learn more about Pride Month, Trans Week of Awareness, an excellent booklist for kids, teens and adults!