International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia is celebrated on May 17th globally. The date was chosen to commemorate the World Health Organisation’s decision to remove homosexuality from the list of mental disorders. In July 2006, thanks to the efforts of Fondation Emergence, the Montreal Conference on LGBT Human Rights, organised in the wake of the Outgames, included in its Declaration of Montreal a strong recommendation to all Governments to recognise May 17th as the International Day Against Homophobia.

Whereas individuals and organisations are welcome to take their own initiatives with which they combat homophobia, the official 2010 IDAHO campaign focuses on religions, which are being misused everywhere to breed hate and divisions rather than peace and unity. Organizations from all denominations launch an Appeal for the religions to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

Speaking about Silence - Homophobia in the Sports World is this year's campaign in Canada, focusing on homophobia in sports. According to Fondation Émergence "The sports world needs to join in society's progress, put an end to the silence on LGBT issues, and get involved in the fight against homophobia."

EGLSF fully supports the initiatives of individuals and organisations in combating homophobia, and thanks our member clubs and dedicated individuals who are actively working in this field on May 17 and 364 other days in the year.

www.dayagainsthomophobia.org