Idaho occurs on the 17th of May because that is the date that, in 1990, the World Health Organisation finally ceased to classify homosexuality as a ‘mental disorder’. Homosexuality is still an imprisonable offence in 77 countries, and homophobia is still widespread. Idaho exists to encourage solidarity with those being discriminated against, convicted, and sometimes killed, for their sexuality.
Westminster is this year hosting the official pre-launch of Idaho, at the London College of Fashion on the 13th of March. The event is jointly organised by Westminster City Council, UNISON, the University of Arts, Schools Out, and LGBT History Month. The evening will consist of an exhibition of work created by art students to promote Idaho and LGBT History Month, and speeches from various prominent speakers.
Barbara Follett MP (Equalities Office) and Minister for Skills David Lammy MP will represent the government; mayoral candidates Sian Berry and Brian Paddick will both give talks; and an international perspective will come from Iraqi activist Ali Hilli and, travelling from Uganda for the event, Kiyimba Brown, who has organised an Idaho group in his home country in the face of enormous adversity. We will also hear from Linda Bellos OBE, the first black lesbian to lead a local council, and who now advises the police and army on diversity.
It is important for UNISON members to attend this event because of the crucial role unions have to play in addressing homophobic discrimination in the workplace, and because of trade unionists’ wider commitment to social justice and equality. All Unison members are welcome to attend this event, which will be a great networking opportunity as well as the chance to view the exhibition and listen to the speeches.
The event takes place from 5pm to 10:15pm on the 13th of March at the London College of Fashion, 20 John Princes Street, W1G.
For more information contact Paul Brown.
