On Tuesday 17 May 2016, at 9.30am, the Rainbow Flag will be raised at Sunderland Civic Centre by The Mayor of Sunderland Councillor Barry Curran. The Mayoress, Carole Curran will also attend the event.
Members of Sunderland LGBT Equality Forum and the LGBT community will be joined by partner organisations including Sunderland City Council, Gentoo, Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue Service, the University of Sunderland and Northumbria Police.
This is in addition to representatives from a host of organisations and supporters from across the city.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Barry Curran said: “The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia has become a regular fixture in Sunderland’s calendar.
“It is wonderful to witness the Rainbow Flag being prominent across the city and to have the university also dedicate a day of activities on this matter.
“However, intolerance does exist and we must work together to ensure that everyone in our city feels, and is safe. Nobody should have to put up with discrimination and intolerance.”
LGBT young people in particular are at high risk of intolerant attitudes and hostility, and in recent years, online bullying and hate speech has added to their plight.
The silence surrounding the issue contributes to a climate of exclusion and creates stigma for young people causing unnecessary distress.
In under a decade, May 17 has established itself as the single most important date for LGBTI communities to mobilise on a worldwide scale.
The day is an annual landmark drawing the attention of decision makers, the media, the public, opinion leaders and local authorities to the alarming situation all those who do not conform to majority sexual and gender norms.
Actions across the world unite millions of people in support of the recognition of human rights for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
If you or someone you know has suffered violence or hostility because of your sexual orientation, gender identity (including Trans), race, disability, age, race or faith call: 0191 520 5550, calls are confidential www.sunderland.gov.uk/hate-
You can also report to the Police: In a non-emergency call 101
If you or someone else is in immediate danger call 999
For more information on the international campaign http://dayagainsthomophobia.