Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Calendar 2025

Monthly News - May 2025

International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)

Content warning: mention of adverse treatment of the LGBTQ+ society

IDAHOBIT began in the 90s, following the removal of homosexuality from the ‘Classifications of Diseases’ by the World Health Organisation. Since then, there has been significant, yet patchy progress across some countries, such as the legalisation of same-sex marriage and legal recognition of non-binary sex. However, the LGBTQ+ community continue to face discrimination, hate, violence and marginalisation across the world, with progress around acceptance and inclusion at risk.

The theme of IDAHOBIT this year is ‘The Power of Communities’ and it is a call for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to collaboratively drive change where they are able. Even small action can be powerful. Learning more about those issues is the first step towards creating safer environments, such as personally adopting more inclusive behaviour in your language and actions, intervening when witnessing discrimination or taking larger actions to remove structural barriers to equality and respect.

What this day means to me:

Growing up in the Republic of Moldova, a developing country in Eastern Europe, and as a gay person, this day holds deep meaning for me. I know first-hand how vital visibility is for our community. From an early age, I experienced homophobia and witnessed the prejudice faced by bisexual and transgender people. I never felt like I could truly be myself, and for a long time, I denied my queerness because I was constantly told that being gay was wrong.

It was only when I moved to the UK that I finally allowed myself to embrace who I am. For the first time, I felt safe enough to be open about my identity without fear. But I also know that many people around the world do not have that freedom - being queer is still punishable by law in many places. That is why this day is so important. It is not just about raising awareness; it is about standing up for the fundamental right to love freely. Love is not a sin, and no one should have to live in fear for simply being who they are. Everyone deserves the freedom to love and be loved without shame, without punishment, and without fear.

Vlad, Student Recruitment Manager

Monthly Calendar

Our EDI calendar can help create an inclusive work and study environment, it can also inspire students, staff and visitors to take part in key celebrations and/or remembrance events.

The calendar highlights faith days observed or celebrated, key diversity days, awareness raising dates and public holidays.

It also focuses on the six main religions as identified in the Census of England and Wales; Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism, All other religions and beliefs not included on the calendar are equally as valued and considered across our work.

Please note: The dates in the calendar were correct at the time of publication in January 2025.

To provide feedback on the calendar, please contact [email protected]