College Information & Events
18 May
The 17th of May is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHoBIT), The day is marked worldwide, including in 37 countries where same-sex acts are still illegal. It was created in 2004 to raise awareness of the violence and discrimination faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, including all people who have diverse gender identities or gender expressions.
The date of 17 May was chosen for IDAHoBiT as this was the date in 1990 when the World Health Organisation finally declassified homosexuality as a mental illness. Despite this, LGBT+ people across the world continue to face hate, discrimination and violence.
This week students and staff of Damascus College have had a range of activities that they can participate in to show their support for this. Throughout the week the DEC sign has shuffled through the colours of the rainbow, SRC member Isla Casey provided information that was shared in TAs on Monday. On Tuesday there was an opportunity in the courtyard to have fingernails and faces painted and to sign a pledge board as a show of support. On Wednesday a specific Book club lunchtime session dedicated to books and resources will be run by Sharen Hayes and senior book club members to provide insight, to help educate and support. The activities of Tuesday will be run in the courtyard again on Friday.
Throughout this week we are celebrating a world of increased positive change in prejudice and discrimination and the road toward a more inclusive and accepting world for all, as we are all created in the Image of God.