Surf Coast Shire is showing its rainbow support ahead of an annual day against LGBTQIA+ discrimination while celebrating advancements in equality.
The pride flag was raised outside council’s Torquay office and rainbow trees, consisting of decorated paper leaves, were unveiled across the shire on Thursday, May 15, to show allyship for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The events took place ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on Saturday, May 17.
Mayor Mike Bodsworth said the flag-raising ceremony was “always a joyous event” and that he looked forward to seeing the flag throughout this month.
“Unveiling of the rainbow trees following the flag ceremony added an expressive dimension to our recognition of IDAHOBIT,” he said.
“While IDAHOBIT might be recognised one day of the year, we also recognise our commitment to standing against LGBTQIA+ discrimination year-round.
“(It was great to be) joined by community members dressed in rainbow colours as we showed support for our rainbow community and stood against LGBTQIA+ discrimination.”
LGBTQIA+ youth support organisation Minus18 Foundation found that discrimination still existed despite recent advances, with two out of three young people experiencing abuse due to their identity.
The Foundation also found that 35 per cent of LGBTQIA+ Australians experienced verbal abuse in the past 12 months, and 68 per cent of LGBTQIA+ employees were not out to everyone at their workplaces.
Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/IDAHOBIT for more information.
