Council to fly rainbow flag for IDAHOT

Noosa Council will again fly a rainbow flag on May 17 in support of International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT).

IDAHOT began in 2004 to shine a light on violence and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender people.

Councillor Brian Stockwell said Council’s aim was for an inclusive, tolerant and welcoming Noosa.

“Every resident and visitor to Noosa Shire should be able to enjoy a safe and peaceful experience,” he said.

“It’s a key goal of our Noosa Social Strategy that everyone, regardless of ethnic and cultural differences, age, gender, ability, or sexuality, should feel included and valued in our shire.

Councillor Jess Glasgow added: “By recognising the plight of many LGBTI people, we can do our bit to help reverse some of the challenges they, and other minority groups, continue to face.”

Cr Ingrid Jackson said research Council undertook for the social strategy showed LGBTI people were over-represented among Australians suffering mental health issues and social isolation.

“Raising the rainbow flag – an international symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride and diversity – is a simple gesture but one that clearly demonstrates that Noosa Council values diversity and condemns intolerance,” she said.

The May 17 date of IDAHOT was chosen to commemorate the World Health Organisation’s decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder.

“As a welcoming and inclusive place, Noosa is pleased to again join with other local governments across Australia to acknowledge IDAHOT on May 17,” Cr Jackson said.

16 May 2017