Ambulance Victoria celebrates IDAHOBIT Day
May 17, 2024in Community News
Today is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), which aims to advocate against the discrimination of people in LGBTQIA+ communities.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) celebrates and supports all its staff who identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community and is actively working to foster a more inclusive working environment and service for all.
Ambulance Victoria celebrates and supports all its staff who identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
IDAHOBIT, 17 May, marks 24 years since homosexuality was removed from the WHO Classification of Diseases.
However, statistics show there is more work to be done to eliminate discrimination.
- Almost 70 per cent of LGBTQIA+ employees in Australia are not out to everyone at work (2018).
- Two in three LGBTQIA+ youth experienced abuse due to their identity.
- 35 per cent of LGBTQIA+ Australians have experienced verbal abuse in the past 12 months.
AV offers staff the option to wear the ‘You’re safe with me’ inclusion badges, and name badges which can also sport individuals’ pronouns.
Ambulance Victoria Paramedic Riley Murphy.
Eaglehawk Paramedic Riley Murphy said IDAHOBIT is a day to celebrate diversity, inclusivity and understanding, as well as highlighting the discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ communities.
“By celebrating diversity and educating each other, we can support at-risk communities and help reduce discrimination,” Riley said.
“By highlighting these issues in our community, we can create a safe environment for all and help reduce the risk of suicide and mental health issues for the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Victorians can visit IDAHOBIT to learn more about IDAHOBIT Day and how to celebrate.
A ‘You’re Safe With Me’ pin.