International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia proclaimed
May 17, 2022, has been proclaimed as the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia in the Town of Amherst.
“While strides have been made, there is still much work to be done to ensure that everyone, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity, lives in conditions of dignity, respect and peace,” Mayor David Kogon said on May 16, as he signed the proclamation on behalf of the Amherst town council.
“One of the town’s strategic priorities is to ensure that our diverse society is inclusive and equitable for everyone. By bringing attention, via this proclamation, to
the fact more work is required in order to achieve that, we are urging all residents of this community to strive towards attaining that important goal.”
In addition to issuing the proclamation, the town will also be flying the Pride flag on May 17.
The international Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia was established in 2003 in Quebec through the efforts of Montreal-based Fondation Emergence, an organization that works to defend the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people. Since then, it has grown into a worldwide movement.
In requesting the proclamation, Laurent Breault, general director with the foundation, said: “With your support, we continue to make history in Canada and internationally by taking a strong stand against homophobia and transphobia. Together, we can create a country that fully accepts sexual and gender diversity.”
