A range of events are taking place around the world today, Saturday 17 May 2008, to mark the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) with "gravitas, concern, determination, wit and irony."
IDAHO is commemorated annually as the anniversary of the World Health Organisation removing homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses in 1990.
From an elderly LGBT group launching in Belfast to trade unionist laying wreaths for those executed in Iran as a result of their sexuality, the day will be marked by thousands of people in the UK.
In Ankara, Turkey, there will be a high profile march against homophobia, and across Canada this week, anti-homophobia campaigns in schools, presentations, concerts, poster promotions and a Fight Against Homophobia awards ceremony in Montreal will help get the message out.
Cuba will mark IDAHO with live debates, plastic arts exhibits, theater works, and book presentations among other projects, with wide support from state institutions.
The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission has joined in with a statement on IDAHO, saying the day can "further raise the visibility of our struggles around the world to combat and eliminate the tragic consequences of homophobia."
Meanwhile in New Zealand, no specific events or activities are planned to mark IDAHO today, with LGBT community organisational energy instead focusing on the annual AIDS Candlelight Memorials planned for six cities around the country tomorrow evening.