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International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders marks International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia (IDAHOT) today, May 17, and sends a message of solidarity against homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and all forms of hate facing LGBTQ people in our communities and across the globe.

This year’s IDAHOT theme is “alliances for solidarity,” because progress is possible together.  The Freeholder Board calls upon the people of Union County to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists, and to celebrate the great diversity of all people.

For many people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ), community environments where we live, learn, work, play and pray are unsafe and unwelcoming spaces.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), homophobia (and other forms of bias hate) can affect one’s physical and mental health, including increased risk of depression and suicide. Homophobia can also result in limiting access to high quality health care, and negatively affect income and employment status.

Today, we recognize IDAHOT to raise awareness of violence, discrimination, and repression of LGBTQ communities locally and worldwide – which in turn provides an opportunity to take action and engage in dialogue to strengthen alliances, build acceptance and advance equal rights.