Local businesses and community members are being encouraged to decorate their shopfront, home window or foyer in rainbow colours in recognition of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).
IDAHOBIT is marked globally each year on May 17 and draws attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex people, and all of those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics.
In recognition of the day, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH), Macedon Ranges and Hume councils are hosting the Rainbow Windows competition, inviting residents and businesses to decorate their shopfronts or windows in rainbow colours – with prizes available for the most creative entries.
SCCH staff member Rhani Dean-Talbett said that the competition helps to raise awareness about how the community can come together to address discrimination and rights violations still experienced by LGBTIQA+ people every day.
“By embodying the theme and entering the rainbow windows competition, the community can demonstrate their creativity and support for LGBTIQA+ people. Last year’s competition was highly contested, and we hope this year will be too,” Ms Talbett said.
Macedon Ranges acting director of community Amy Holmes said that the council is proud to again partner with Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and others to support this IDAHOBIT initiative.
“IDAHOBIT is always a colourful, poignant opportunity to show our support and we encourage others to join us in standing up against discrimination not just on this day, but every day,” Ms Holmes said.
To register your business or window in the competition, visit the Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health website.
There will also be a free online workshop prior to the event.
Details: sunburycobaw.org.au
