Today, May 17, is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT). Why this date? And what two other key events in the history of civil rights also happened on this day?
On May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses—which is why the day is now observed as IDAHOBIT, “A Worldwide Celebration of Sexual and Gender Diversities.” There are usually events held around the globe to mark the occasion; this year, as last year, the in-person events are few, but there are still organizations on every continent (except Antarctica) finding ways to celebrate.
Additionally, starting on May 17, 2004, same-sex couples could legally marry in Massachusetts—the first U.S. state to permit them to do so. (Bonus LGBTQ parenting fun fact: Four of the five plaintiff couples in the lawsuit that won marriage equality were parents.)
And on May 17, 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark decision striking down racial segregation in education.
Today stands at an opposite point around the sun from November 18, the date of the 2003 Massachusetts ruling that permitted same-sex couples to marry starting the next May, and also the date that the U.K.’s homophobic Section 28 law was repealed in 2003.
Clearly, I’m all about these days and ways that bring us together in community (or maybe I just like an excuse for cake). I hope you’ll also join me on June 1 for the 16th Annual #LGBTQFamiliesDay, when you’re invited to post, tweet, or share on any social media channel in celebration and support of LGBTQ families!