The International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia has reached its twentieth anniversary. Promoted by the International Committee for the Day against Homophobia and Transphobia and recognized by the EU and the United Nations, it is celebrated on May 17 of each year since 2004. In a note published for the occasion on the Council of Europe’s website, institutions “invite, as on every day, governments around the world to repeal discriminatory legislation, to act to combat and eliminate hate crimes and incitement to hatred, to prevent all forms of violence against LGBTI people, and to address the obstacles and structural and institutional prejudices that still limit the participation of LGBTI people in decision-making and political processes.”
President Sergio Mattarella condemned homotransphobia as unacceptable, stating, “Intolerance towards others, indifference to the infringement of others’ freedoms, are tears in democratic coexistence. Italy is not immune to episodes of homotransphobia: individuals discriminated against, crushed by prejudices, which often result in unacceptable hate speech, verbally and physically assaulted. It is not possible to accept resignation to brutality.” He called on institutions to work towards “an inclusive society respectful of identities.”
Giorgia Meloni, the President of the Council, emphasized the government’s commitment to fighting homotransphobia, stating, “It is our duty to keep international attention focused on the persecutions and abuses that are still perpetrated in many countries around the world based on sexual orientation. Discrimination and violence that violate the dignity of individuals and should never be overlooked. Also on this front, the government is, and will always be, at the forefront.” She highlighted the importance of addressing discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation.
On Friday, May 17, Rai will present television, radio, and digital editorial initiatives to reflect on the discriminations that many individuals still face based on their sexual orientation. Rai 1’s programs “Unomattina” and “La vita in diretta”, as well as Rai 2’s “I fatti vostri”, will feature discussions on the topic. Rai 3 will address it on “Agorà” at 8:00 am, and in the evening, the film “Il signore delle formiche” by Gianni Amelio will be aired, telling the true story of Aldo Braibanti, an openly homosexual intellectual and writer who was involved in a controversial trial in the 1960s for plagiarizing a twenty-year-old. Special segments dedicated to the Day will be included in the main editions of the newscasts and radio news.
The International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia serves as a reminder of the ongoing discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTI community worldwide. It calls on governments and institutions to repeal discriminatory laws, combat hate crimes, prevent violence against LGBTI individuals, and address systematic prejudices that continue to hinder the participation of LGBTI individuals in decision-making processes. By raising awareness and promoting inclusivity and respect for all identities, society can work towards creating a more equal and tolerant world for everyone.
