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CMHA Windsor-Essex County

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Honouring International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

May 17, 2026

Why this day is so important

Observed annually on May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) marks the World Health Organization’s 1990 decision to remove homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases. This was a major milestone in the global movement for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights.

Since first being recognized in 2005, IDAHOBIT has grown into a worldwide day of advocacy and solidarity, where communities around the world mark the day through events, education, conversations, art, advocacy and acts of support for 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

Today, IDAHOBIT is observed in more than 155 countries and territories.

“At the heart of democracy”

This year’s theme, “At the heart of democracy,” asks an important question: what does it actually take for people to fully participate in their communities and feel like they truly belong there?

At CMHA branches across Ontario, we know mental health is deeply connected to whether people feel safe, respected, included and supported in the communities around them. For many 2SLGBTQIA+ people, those feelings are too often disrupted by discrimination and barriers to affirming care and support.

IDAHOBIT is an opportunity to recognize that creating healthier communities means creating communities where people can access care and support without fear of judgement or harm. Where everyone has the freedom to live openly and authentically.

How our branch supports 2SLGBTQIA+ communities

CMHA-WECB supports 2SLGBTQIA+ community members through: