NEWS RELEASE
NORTHERN ONTARIO PRIDE NETWORK
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The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) was created in Montreal in 2004 to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex people and all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics.
The date of May 17 was specifically chosen to commemorate the World Health Organization’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.
The day represents a major global annual landmark to draw the attention of decision makers, the media, the public, corporations, opinion leaders, local authorities, etc. to the alarming situation faced by people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics.
May 17 is now celebrated in more than 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are illegal.
The 2022 theme is Our Bodies, Our Lives, Our Rights.
Elliot Lake Pride is recognizing the day with a flag raising at the Miner’s Memorial at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
We will be raising the 2 Spirit flag along with the Rainbow flag. Representatives from the Serpent River First Nation Band Council and community along with Elliot Lake councillors have been invited to participate in this event. Please join us to honour the occasion.
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