Benalla Rural City Council invites the community to celebrate 2024 International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination (IDAHOBIT), observed annually on May 17.
To celebrate, the Council will host a free community event at the Civic Centre on Friday 17 May from 11.30am, featuring a flag raising ceremony, speeches, and a community BBQ.
Mayor, Cr Danny Claridge, expressed excitement about the event, emphasising its importance as an opportunity for residents to demonstrate solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community.
"We welcome everyone to the Civic Centre on Mair Street to celebrate the spirit of inclusion and acceptance in our community."
"Whether you identify as LGBTIQA+ or as an ally, your presence is valued as we unite against discrimination and promote inclusivity globally, but especially at a local level," Cr Claridge said.
In celebration of IDAHOBIT, the Council will raise the pride flag in front of the Civic Centre and illuminate the Benalla Library with rainbow colours on the evenings of Friday 17 May through to Sunday 19 May 2024.
Cr Claridge highlighted the Council's commitment to fostering equality and respect for all individuals and urged the community to join in reflecting on the challenges faced by the LGBTIQA+ members of our community.
"Recent studies have shown that LGBTIQA+ Victorians face higher levels of discrimination, stigma and exclusion which leads to poorer health, economic, social and mental health outcomes.
Statistics from the state government's Pride in our future: Victoria's LGBTIQA+ strategy 2022–32 show that members of the LGBTIQA+ community face high levels of discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or their ethnicity, cultural identity or heritage. These figures are often higher in regional areas.
"This day serves as a poignant reminder that every person deserves dignity, acceptance and to live in a safe environment.
"Discrimination has no place in our community, and we must continue working together to ensure a society free from persecution and violence," Cr Claridge said.
