Homophobia is an insidious phenomenon that has succeeded in taking hold in a subtle, discreet and often invisible manner. Nobody is really immune from hostile manifestations toward homosexuality. And, surprisingly, some homosexual persons are adopting homophobic behaviour to shield themselves from negative reactions that others might have. The International Day Against Homophobia will try to reach out to everybody regardless of sexual orientation.
The purpose or goals Fondation Émergence has proposed for the International Day Against Homophobia are to:
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promote the growth of harmonious relationships among people, regardless of their sexual orientation;
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further the inclusion of homosexual persons in society;
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encourage citizens to understand sexual diversity;
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put an end to discrimination based on sexual orientation in keeping with the charters of rights and freedoms;
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give rise to a general openmindedness towards diversity, and other related values in our society;
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show the devastating effects of homophobia;
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propose and put in place concrete means to fight homophobia;
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induce all sympathizers to organize activities aimed at fighting homophobia;
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set up a consultation process among its partners;
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converge all anti-homophobia activities on a single day;
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put together an organizational structure capable of insuring the survival and recurrence of the event.
A rallying event
The International Day Against Homophobia will offer an opportunity for people to get together and reach out to one another. Everybody is invited to organize events in their communities. For example, it will be a chance for:
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teachers to talk about homophobia in the class room;
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employers to set up programs against homophobia in the workplace;
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trade unions to organize activities for their members;
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community groups to promote this day among their clientèle;
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broadcasters to present special reports and documentaries;
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newspapers to publish articles on the subject;
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radio station to play gay and lesbian theme songs ;
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gays and lesbians who wish to do so to “come out” of the closet;
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parents to talk about homosexuality with their kids;
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governments to follow up on their commitments, and to approuve a motion in support of efforts against homophobia.
Other headings in this section: