DISCOVER THE POWERFUL MEANING OF IDAHOBIT
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) is observed every year on May 17th.
Perhaps you saw the acronym IDAHOBIT for the first time and need more information. Maybe you’re an LGBTQ+ person or ally looking for ways to get involved and raise awareness. Or are you like us — proud queer leaders who hope to promote action and start conversations?
Let’s discover the powerful meaning of IDAHOBIT — what it stands for, when it began and why it exists today.
Then, let’s talk about ways to celebrate our progress while looking towards a future where everyone is free to be their authentic selves.
What is IDAHOBIT?
May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
IDAHOBIT is an acronym for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia, and Transphobia.
The day was originally known as IDAHO (International Day Against Homophobia). Since then, the name evolved to recognize and condemn the effects of discrimination against transgender, bisexual and intersex people.
Today, some organizations refer to this date as the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination. This effort seeks further inclusion of lesbian, queer and asexual individuals.
No matter the name, IDAHOBIT is a powerful day of reflection, awareness and action in support of the global LGBTQ+ community.
When Did IDAHOBIT Start?
IDAHOBIT was first formally recognized on May 17, 2005. Many queer advocates and historians trace its roots to French activist Louis-Georges Tin. Tin formed a coalition in 2004 that fought for an official date to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ rights violations.
Over 24,000 people signed the initial appeal in support of the “IDAHO Initiative”. This group included members of international LGBTQ+ and human rights organizations:
International Lesbian and Gay Association
International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (Outright International)
World Congress of LGBT Jews
Coalition of African Lesbians
In 2005, the first celebration of IDAHO was a monumental step forward in the quest for global LGBTQ+ rights. It marked the first-ever organized LGBTQ+ events to take place in Bulgaria, China and the Congo.
Why is IDAHOBIT on May 17?
The date we observe IDAHOBIT is no accident.
On May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declassified homosexuality as a mental health disorder.
Think about that. Medical professionals called being gay a “mental disorder” until 1990.
These harmful misclassifications existed for decades:
The WHO included homosexuality as a mental disorder from 1977 to 1990.
The American Psychological Association (APA) classified homosexuality as a form of mental disorder in some shape or form from 1952 to 1974. Some same-sex attraction diagnoses existed until 1987.
Is it any wonder that the period between 1950 and 1990 is one of the most damaging for queer people in modern history? The proliferation of these entrenched homophobic beliefs led generations of human beings to internalize homophobia as “medical fact”.
Thankfully, we are over 35 years removed from the WHO’s landmark decision — but it will still take more time to reverse the damage done.
A Growing Legacy: IDAHOBIT’s History and Accomplishments
Authentic Leaders proudly observes IDAHOBIT and stands against LGBTQIA+ discrimination in all forms.
IDAHOBIT is more than an acronym and a yearly observance. It boasts a growing, enduring legacy of systemic change, greater inclusion and positive global effects.
Here are some of the key moments and milestones in IDAHOBIT’s history from 2005-present:
May 17, 2005: The first global International Day Against Homophobia is observed.
2006: The Declaration of Montreal demands the United Nations and all states recognize May 17 as International Day against Homophobia.
2009: Transphobia is formally added to the name and mission statement — IDAHOT. Over 300 NGOs and Nobel Prize winners sign a new petition aimed at fighting against transphobic violence and discrimination.
2009: In a landmark triumph, France becomes the first nation to remove transgender issues and self-identity from its list of mental illnesses.
2010: Brazil adopts May 17th as National Day Against Homophobia.
2013: 50,000 people joined the Santiago Equality March in Chile in recognition of May 17 and in support of same-sex unions.
2014: By Presidential decree, Mexico declares May 17th as National Day Against Homophobia.
2015: Biphobia is formally included to the name and mission statement — IDAHOBIT.
2016: Venezuela recognizes May 17 as the Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.
2019: On May 17, 2019, Taiwan became the first Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage.
2022: Many groups begin referring to IDAHOBIT as International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination, in support of lesbian, intersex, asexual and queer people.
2025: IDAHOBIT’s annual theme, “The Power of Communities”, recognizes the diversity and strength within LGBTQ+ communities.
Where We Stand: The Push for Global LGBTQ+ Rights
As of May 2025, over 130 countries commemorate May 17th as International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.
However, the fight is not nearly over. A 2024 statement from UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner reveals these awful statistics:
Transgender individuals face criminal punishment in 26 countries.
62 countries still criminalize same-sex relationships.
12 countries impose the death penalty for same-sex relationships.
In each of the aforementioned countries, LGBTQ+ people face higher rates of violence, sexually-based violence, and discrimination.
IDAHOBIT: How to Get Involved
Global
Visit ILGA World — since 2004,it’s been a cornerstone organization in the IDAHOBIT mission. They offer frequent updates on annual observances, causes and events.
ILGA’s updated IDAHOBIT page offers specific ideas for how you can get engaged and involved in this year’s observances.
Australia
The best resource for people looking to get involved with IDAHOBIT is its official Australian website. The site features a tremendous list of missions, activities and resources for those who wish to make an impact.
From Minus18 to awareness campaigns, Queer Formals to donations, there are so many ways to make an impact on Australia’s LGBTQ+ community.
United States
There are dozens of local LGBTQ+ organizations and pride centers looking for support, donations and volunteers.
Those wishing to make an impact on a broader scale should visit the National LGBTQ Task Force or visit GLAAD’s Resource List.
Authentic Leaders Honors and Observes IDAHOBIT
IDAHOBIT is a testament to the power of LGBTQ+ leaders in action. We are so proud of the work, dedication and advances made by generations of queer advocates and activists.
While the official observance is May 17, we carry the themes and missions of IDAHOBIT with us every day.
Authentic Leaders strives to help queer individuals and LGBTQ+ business leaders discover, express, and embrace their intersectional selves. We cannot wait to see the positive, powerful changes this year’s IDAHOBIT creates in the world.
