Saturday, May 17, 2008

International Day Against Homophobia



Homosexuality isn’t a sickness! Today is the international day against homophobia.

Despite the World Health Organisation’s crossing homosexuality off as a mental sickness on May 17, 1991, many prejudices are still present when it comes to gays, lesbians and transgender.

Many people still think that being gay is a choice or a mental disorder, and some even think that it can be “cured”. Specialists in metal health think it is impossible. Granted that it’s only in 1973 that the American Psychiatry Association removed homosexuality from its reference book, and that decision was only reflected in their manuals published in 1980. No wonder there is still lots of work to do in public awareness.

I’m using my blog to fight ignorance against homophobia.

You can check out the official site for this International Day, here.

4 comments:

Daddy Papersurfer said...

I am an honorary lesbian [don't ask, it's a long story] - tee hee

I find it very strange this is still an issue - oh well.

Unknown said...

Alas, it shows that ignorance and fear are still the strongest forces in our universe. I'll be posting this on my blog as well. Thanks for pointing it out.

Annake said...

My parents are among those who think it's a choice. I've tried explaining to them that it's like choosing whether or not to breathe oxygen but they still don't get it. Unfortunate.

stinkypaw said...

daddy p: Strange and yet it's still an issue for many...

marius: Thanks for spreading the word!

m red: It is unfortunate. I'm sure, if it was a choice, many of them would have chosen an easier route...