On May 17th, days thousands of advocates and LGBT allies around the world will celebrate the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia in an attempt to draw the attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by LGBT people internationally. As part of GLAAD's Global Voices program, which works to accelerate LGBT acceptance across the globe, GLAAD will participate and celebrate IDAHOT together with thousands of diverse groups and individuals. Beginning today, May 1, we will give you 17 reasons, one every day, why May 17 matters. We invite you to create and share your own, via the hashtag #May17Because and amplify the voice for LGBT equality.
According to GLAAD's most recent report, Accelerating Acceptance, third of non-LGBT Americans say that just seeing a same-sex couple holding hands makes them uncomfortable. This includes 13% who say it makes them very uncomfortable. While the public is increasingly embracing LGBT equality under the law, many are still uncomfortable with having LGBT people in their families and the communities where they live. When LGBT people and allies speak out, hearts and minds open. Your voice is critical to increasing the acceptance of LGBT people. Speak out now and show the world the importance of LGBT acceptance. IDAHOTB Rule Number 2: Someone I love is LGBTIQ and I stand by them. #May17Because