It was founded by Louis Georges Tin in 2005. Campaigns and Inititives take place on or around May 17th every year to combat prejudice against LGBT people. May 17th is chosen because it marks the anniversary of the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental diseases. For more information, click here.

Nearly half of the countries in this world criminally ban homosexuality, with at least five countries punishing people convicted of homosexuality with death.  Speaking out against global homophobia is the only surefire way to combat the violence faced by LGBT people in Iraq, Iran, Senegal, Jamaica, in our own communities, and throughout the world.

- Change.org

Today also marks the launch of A Day in Hand in London.

You know that magical feeling you get when you see two women or two men holding hands in public? Imagine if you could see and feel that every day.

A Day In Hand seeks to promote equality for Lesbian, Gay, Bi & Trans (LGBT) people by inspiring same-sex couples across the globe to hold hands publicly. Anybody, on any day, can take part.

The love and commitment of LGBT couples has no presence in everyday life. Whilst laws are changing, cultural attitudes still need to be addressed. Equal rights are a necessity but we need equal respect too. Hand holding is a simple, liberating gesture that is essential to our communities’ health.

David Watkins, group founder answers questions:

Can straight people get involved?
You don’t have to be gay to object to homophobia. We are asking straight people to hold hands with someone of their same gender in public, and describe how it made them feel. This is an inclusive event and involving straight people will support a wider understanding of this issue.

Who is behind the campaign?
Celebrities and public figures have been quick to get involved. Brian Paddick (I’m A Celebrity…) appeared in a photoshoot for the project, and activists Cleve Jones (Harvey Milk’s aide) and Peter Tatchell support the campaign.

Why same-sex hand-holding?
We believe increasing visibility of LGBT people through hand holding will change the way communities understand LGBT people and their relationships.

What can I do?
A Day In Hand is asking people to upload photos of same-sex hand-holding to www.adayinhand.com, register on the site and spread the word.

A Day In Hand will launch at XXL Club, London Bridge 1-4pm on 17 May 2009, the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO). Register on the website to receive more information as this becomes available.

 

The International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO)
this year is 17th May 2008.

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What are you doing to stamp out Hate Crime?

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Want to know more?

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Click HERE