To celebrate, council will host a free community event at the Civic Centre on Friday, May 17, from 11.30am, featuring a flag-raising ceremony, speeches and a community barbecue.
Mayor 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 St to celebrate the spirit of inclusion and acceptance in our community,“ Cr Claridge said.
"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.“
In celebration of IDAHOBIT, council will raise the pride flag in front of the Civic Centre and illuminate Benalla Library with rainbow colours on the evenings from Friday, May 17, to Sunday, May 19.
Cr Claridge said council was committed 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 the 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,” he said.
Statistics from the Victorian 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,“ Cr Claridge said.
“Discrimination has no place in our community, and we must continue working together to ensure a society free from persecution and violence.”
Find out more at www.idahobit.org.au/
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