honor-our-lgbt-elders-day-may-17

Honor Our Lgbt Elders Day May 17

On May 17th, the world stands united to observe International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB), a pivotal moment not just for celebration but for reflection on the journey and resilience of the LGBT community. This day, rooted in the significant decision by the World Health Organization to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder, has evolved into a global movement, drawing participation from over 130 countries. It's a day that shines a spotlight on the triumphs and ongoing battles faced by LGBT individuals, with a special focus on the elders within this community. These individuals have navigated through decades of discrimination, legal battles, and societal stigma, marking their stories with both hardship and incredible resilience. IDAHOTB serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made and the road ahead, urging us to honor, learn from, and support our LGBT elders. Their lives are testaments to strength in the face of adversity, and recognizing their contributions offers us invaluable lessons in courage, love, and the importance of fighting for a world where everyone can live authentically and freely.

Key Takeaway

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) is celebrated on May 17 to recognize the achievements and resilience of the LGBT community and raise awareness about the challenges faced by LGBT individuals, particularly older ones.
IDAHOTB originated in Canada in 2004 to commemorate the removal of homosexuality from the World Health Organization’s list of mental disorders and has since become a global event with over 130 participating countries.

Timeline

1969
Stonewall Riots
Sparked by a police raid on the Stonewall Inn in New York City, this series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the gay community is often credited as the catalyst for the modern LGBT rights movement.
1970
First Gay Pride Marches
The first gay pride marches took place in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.
1973
American Psychiatric Association Removes Homosexuality from DSM
The American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, a significant milestone in the fight for LGBT rights.
1982
Wisconsin Becomes First State to Ban Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation
Wisconsin passed a law banning discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
1990
World Health Organization Removes Homosexuality from ICD
The World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases, recognizing it as a normal variant of human sexuality.
2000
Vermont Legalizes Civil Unions
Vermont became the first state to legalize civil unions, granting same-sex couples many of the same legal rights and responsibilities as married opposite-sex couples.
2003
Massachusetts Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that same-sex couples have the right to marry, making Massachusetts the first state to legalize same-sex marriage.
2009
National Equality March
Tens of thousands of people gathered in Washington, D.C. for the National Equality March, calling for full federal equality for LGBT people.
2015
Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Marriage Equality
The United States Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry, making marriage equality the law of the land.
2020
Landmark Supreme Court Ruling on LGBT Workplace Protections
The Supreme Court ruled in Bostock v. Clayton County that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects LGBT employees from discrimination, a major victory for LGBT rights.

Day Activities

  1. Educating Ourselves: Kick off the day by diving into the rich history and untold stories of LGBT elders. Libraries, documentaries, and online forums are gold mines for this. It's like stepping into a time machine, only instead of going back, you're uncovering the resilience and courage that paved the way for today's freedoms.

  2. Advocacy in Action: After brushing up on history, why not roll up your sleeves and get to work? Writing letters to legislators, supporting local initiatives, or even starting a social media campaign can make a huge difference. Think of it as planting seeds for a garden of equality and inclusion that LGBT elders can proudly watch grow.

  3. Celebrate and Connect: Wrap up the day by throwing a celebration that bridges generations. Imagine a gathering where stories flow freely, wisdom is shared, and laughter fills the air. Whether it's a virtual meet-up or a small local event, it's all about honoring the journey of LGBT elders and fostering connections that strengthen the community's fabric.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating resilience and achievements
    Let's face it, LGBT elders are downright superheroes. They've navigated through some tough times, facing discrimination and fighting for their rights, all while paving the way for future generations. Honoring them on May 17 isn't just about giving a nod to their struggles; it's a full-blown celebration of their courage, resilience, and the incredible progress they've helped achieve. It's like throwing a party for the unsung heroes of history, and who doesn't love a good party?

  • Raising awareness about ongoing challenges
    Sure, we've come a long way, but the road ahead is still rocky for many in the LGBT community, especially the older folks. May 17 shines a spotlight on the hurdles they still face, from healthcare hiccups to housing headaches. It's not just about looking back; it's a clarion call to action. By bringing these issues to the forefront, we're not only educating ourselves and others but also rallying the troops to keep pushing for change. It's like saying, "Hey, we've got your back," and who wouldn't feel pumped about that?

  • Fostering intergenerational connections
    Here's the kicker: celebrating this day isn't just about paying homage to the past; it's also about building bridges to the future. Engaging in dialogues, sharing stories, and participating in activities that connect LGBT elders with younger generations isn't just heartwarming—it's downright revolutionary. It's about passing the torch, sharing wisdom, and ensuring the legacy of bravery and resilience continues to inspire. Imagine the power of these connections, like a baton in a relay race, ensuring no one is left behind.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
MAY 17 2022
MAY 17 2023
MAY 17 2024
MAY 17 2025
MAY 17 2026
MAY 17 2027
MAY 17 2028

FAQ

What is National Honor Our LGBT Elders Day?

Honor Our LGBT Elders Day, observed on May 16, is dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating the myriad contributions and struggles of LGBT seniors who have been instrumental in the fight for equality and acceptance. It's a day to express gratitude, respect, and support towards these pioneers of the LGBT community.

What day is LGBT celebrated?

LGBT Pride is celebrated throughout the month of June each year. The month-long celebration includes various events like parades, marches, parties, and workshops to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City, which were a turning point in the fight for LGBT rights. The exact dates of celebrations can vary by city and country.