As part of the global commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17th , gender equality advocates are launching #EndRainbowViolence – a movement that aims to increase the public’s awareness on the LGBTQ+ rights and welfare in order to promote acceptance which can lead to the elimination of violence and stigma.
#EndRainbowViolence serves as an opportunity to feature stories of acceptance but also highlights the harassment and attacks members of the LGBTQ+ community experience from various sectors. In the long-term, the movement calls for policy change and positive action to prevent any form of violence done because of a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics.
The public launch will be on Friday, May 17th , 6:00 pm, at The Ruins Poblacion, 5855 Alfonso Street, Barangay Poblacion, Makati City. “We’re pleased to launch this movement coinciding with IDAHOBIT – a day dedicated to raising public awareness on LGBTQ+ rights and welfare to help eliminate violence and stigma, and to eventually advance gender equality,” Maica Teves, executive director of SPARK! Philippines said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing fellow advocates from civil society, members of the diplomatic community, and other allies, launching this initiative,” she added.
The event will showcase a number of personal narratives through a Gallery of Stories which will be gathered from the netizens through a 7-day Twitter campaign. SPARK! Philippines, an organization that promotes gender equality, is leading this initiative, with assistance from the Embassies of Belgium and Canada in the Philippines. Other partners include Terre des Hommes and Mindanao Pride.
#EndRainbowViolence, is part of SPARK! Philippines’ larger #RespetoNaman campaign. For more information, visit RespetoNaman on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or email info@sparkphilippines.org