MONTRÉAL, May 15, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - Launched by the Fondation Émergence in 2003, the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia is the global awareness day held annually on May 17th. This rallying event is intended as an opportunity for people to come together and combine their efforts in the fight against homophobia and transphobia in their communities. The Fondation Émergence encourages both individuals and organizations to take part in this commitment for inclusivity.
Each year, a targeted campaign is produced to highlight the many challenges faced by the LGBT community around the world. Amongst other tools, the campaign is available in posters available in 20 languages and program guides. For 2018, the official theme for the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia is the rights of LGBT members around the world.
To shed light on the injustices that the LGBT community suffers daily the Fondation Émergence has produced a short video featuring the daily inequalities suffered by members of the LGBT community from here and across the globe. Featured in the video is 193 United Nations flags shown proudly in the LGBT pride colours. What happens next is truly incredible and provides a strong message worldwide.
The "Pride Shield" is a call for solidarity; a solidarity that knows no borders. This is why it will be kept as a symbol which will convey its message to all communities.
Let us remember, to this day, being homosexual is a crime in over 72 nations around the world. "Despite the conditions for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people improving globally, there is still plenty of work to be accomplished to ensure basic rights for all. There is still too much physical and psychological violence oriented against LGBT people. We hope all Quebecers and Canadians will join the cause and raise awareness by standing together and supporting each other as best as we can," said Francis Viau, spokesperson for Fondation Émergence.
With 193 flags united in the colors of the rainbow, we have the power to stop any bullet together. As a cry for humanity, these words are also a reminder that the fight against homophobia and transphobia must go on. For years, many activists and allies have worked together to make this progress possible for LGBT people. However there's still a long way to go an a lot of work to do in terms of inclusivity. This LGBT flag, designed with 193 flags for the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, is a powerful testament that we must all unite and take a stand against this injustice.
This is not only an LGBT issue; this is an issue we must face together as a society.
About Fondation Émergence
Founded in 2003, The Fondation Émergence works to fight against homophobia and transphobia in societies all over the world. We work to support the rights and inclusion of LGBT people through awareness campaigns, projects, surveys, and awards as part of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia held on this date.
SOURCE Fondation Émergence
To book an interview, request visuals or more information: Eric Santerre, Accounts director - TöK Communications, [email protected], (514) 914-3077, tokcommunications.ca
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