LEAP marks IDAHOBIT with call for unity
17th May 2023
Always Together: United in Diversity
It’s 2023, and today on May 17th, it is 33 years since homosexuality was removed from the WHO’s International Classification of Diseases. To mark this momentous landmark for LGBTIQ+ rights the campaign, International Day against Homophobia, Lesbophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia was launched.
In the past 33 years, we have seen huge gains in the rights for LGBTIQ+ people, from improving visibility, access to healthcare and services as well as important legislation. The theme for this year’s IDAHOBIT is “Always Together: United in Diversity'', which rings true with so many of our community members who continue to stand side by side with their friends, colleagues and team mates. Today on the 17th of May 2023, it is a day to commemorate what we have achieved, how far we have come, but also to reflect on the long road ahead of us.
There has been increased visibility of queer people, particularly for previously underrepresented groups such as trans, intersex and non-binary people. However, a 2023 report from ILGA documented how transphobic speech has increased in Ireland, Poland, Spain, Switzerland and the UK among other places, especially in the media. We have also seen the review of policies at sports governing bodies with organisations such as World Athletics increasing restrictions for trans and intersex athletes, and the Scottish Rugby Union joining England, Ireland and Wales Rugby in banning trans women from participating in women’s rugby.
Let’s not forget the positives to celebrate. For example 2022 saw key sporting figures come out and share their stories of being their authentic selves, especially within Scottish Football which has led to more focus on creating LGBTIQ football supporters clubs feeding into the Football v Homophobia strategies. And in response to policy reviews, decisions and hatred, solidarity movements have developed, where chants of “LGB with the T!” are a clear example of support across the community, where we stand together, united against those who try to break our communities apart.
We are proud of our LEAP community groups, who continue to champion inclusion and diversity during every single interaction, game, training, team social and campaign. Without the motivation and dedication of leaders in these settings, LGBTIQ inclusion in sport in Scotland would be in a completely different place - so this is our thank you to all of you! Keep fighting the good fight!
Today, on International Day Against Homophobia, Lesbophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia, we at LEAP Sports stand against LGBTIQ-phobia, reject hate and instead celebrate our LGBTIQ+ athletes, colleagues, teammates and friends. We stand united to support the inclusion of LGBTIQ+ athletes in sport and physical activity.
You can join us in being united together for diversity by becoming a volunteer with LEAP or by joining one of the LGBTIQ inclusive sports clubs near you. Find more information about being a volunteer here
Find more information about clubs here
