Celebrating IDAHOT
Dear Editor,
Having celebrated International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT) on May 17, let us not forget what the actual day represents for LGBTQIA people, locally and abroad.
On May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization (WHO) decided to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. In 2004 the day was identified as one that would bring attention to the discrimination, hardships, and violence members of the LGBTQIA community faced, and while over 130 countries use May 17 as a day of celebration, others use this day as a reflective marker of progress in their own countries.
Globally, more than two billion people live in countries where homosexuality or maleto-male intimacy is still illegal and limits the holistic experiences people from different groups are able to have because of fear of prosecution.
While studies over the years have shown an increase in acceptance and tolerance, it is imperative that legislation follow to reinforce the acceptance of queer Jamaicans. Without adequate legislative representation, LGBTQIA Jamaicans will continue to be denied service and access to everyday necessities, such as employment, housing, and public accommodations.
While significant progress has been made toward social acceptance of LGBTQIA Jamaicans, without the dedication and commitment of the courageous advocates working to promote equality, these changes would not have been possible.
While major obstacles are still ahead, Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-sexuals and Gays (JFLAG), Transwave, Equality Youth, and other key stakeholders will make Jamaica the place of choice to live, raise families, and do business in the years to come.
Barrington Walsh orlandowalsh1@gmail.com