Although the term 'homophobia' was coined in 1972 by George Weinberg, meaning the irrational fear of, aversion to, or discrimination against homosexuality, the fear and ignorance are unfortunately much older, and are still present nowadays.

The International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO), held on May 17 every year, is a rallying event offering an opportunity for people to get together and reach out to one another. May 17th is symbolic due to its significance in the improvement of the status of gays and lesbians. IDAHO proposed this date for annually holding a day set aside to fight homophobia. In removing homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses on May 17, 1991, the World Health Organisation (WHO) put an end to over a century of homophobia in the medical field. May 17, a day-by-day campaign is a slogan reminding them that the fight against homophobia should also be an everyday effort.

European Gay and Lesbian Sport Federation (EGLSF) is continuously working towards Fair Play, Tolerance & Safety in Sports for Everyone - which is also our slogan. EGLSF, together with its member clubs, welcomes the initiative of IDAHO, and joins the organisations world-wide in combating homophobia in all fields, especially in the field of sports.

For more information about actions around the world, and close to you, please visit http://www.homophobiaday.org and http://www.idahomophobia.org.