From Resistance to Resilience: Creating Safer Spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ Youth on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

Every year on May 17, the world comes together to mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) — a date rooted in both history and the ongoing fight for human rights. This global day of action began in 2004, but its origins reach back decades through struggles led by 2SLGBTQ+ communities worldwide, including right here in Canada.

Why May 17 Matters Globally and in Canada

May 17 commemorates the historic moment in 1990 when the World Health Organization (WHO) officially removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. This decision was a turning point, but progress has been uneven — including in Canada.

It wasn’t until 2003 that the Canadian Psychological Association followed suit by explicitly removing homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses. This recognition came after years of advocacy from 2SLGBTQ+ Canadians who challenged harmful "conversion therapies" and fought for mental health practices grounded in affirmation rather than stigma.

For many 2SLGBTQ+ youths, especially in Canada’s Indigenous, racialized, and rural communities, the shadow of that pathologization still lingers. Discrimination, family rejection, and lack of affirming services remain real threats to their well-being today.

A History of Canadian Resistance and Change

Canada has its own rich, often overlooked history of queer and trans activism:

• In 1971, the We Demand Rally on Parliament Hill became Canada’s first large-scale protest for gay and lesbian rights, calling for the decriminalization of homosexuality and protection against discrimination.

• In 1981, following police raids on Toronto bathhouses, thousands took to the streets in what many call Canada's version of the Stonewall riots — a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ rights.

• In 1990, Indigenous leaders coined the term Two-Spirit at a conference in Winnipeg, reclaiming traditional roles and identities that colonization sought to erase.

• By 2005, Canada became the fourth country to legalize same-sex marriage, setting a global example for equality.

  
  

And yet, progress has never been linear. Even today, 2SLGBTQ+ youth face disproportionately high rates of bullying, homelessness, and mental health challenges.

Why Safer Spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ Youth Are Still Urgent

The data speaks volumes:

• Nearly 70% of 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Canada report experiencing verbal harassment.

• They are more than twice as likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.

• Up to 40% of homeless youth in Canada identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

  
  

Creating safer spaces isn’t just about physical safety, it’s about building environments where youth feel affirmed, valued, and empowered to live authentically.

Honoring History Through Action Today

On this International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, we can honor Canada’s trailblazing activists by continuing their work:

• Affirm identities: Respect chosen names, pronouns, and create inclusive language environments.

• Educate and unlearn: Challenge outdated beliefs that continue to harm 2SLGBTQ+ people, especially youth.

• Push for policy change: Support inclusive curricula, anti-bullying laws, and mental health services that center 2SLGBTQ+ youth.

• Uplift 2SLGBTQ+ youth voices: They are not just victims of discrimination but leaders shaping a more inclusive future.

  
  

Building a Future Where Youth Thrive

The journey from being labeled "disordered" to being legally recognized and celebrated has been long and hard-fought. But for many 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Canada today, the battle for safety, dignity, and belonging continues.

Let this day not only remind us of past victories but push us to take concrete actions so that every 2SLGBTQ+ young person can grow up in a world where they are not just safe, but free to thrive.

Because true safety is the starting point.