Launch a Balloon Against Queerphobia!

Today, May 17, we mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). It’s a day of solidarity, support, and protest against discrimination and violence targeting LGBTQ+ people. Around the world, this day is traditionally commemorated with actions like mass balloon launches — a symbol of freedom, hope, and the fight for equality.

Rainbow balloon flash mobs in honor of IDAHOBIT took place as far back as 2009 — in Russia, as well as in Ukraine and Armenia around the same time.

But now, as we all know, with increased repression and stricter laws in Russia, this kind of action can no longer happen as it once did. In today’s Russia, we can no longer take to the streets with colorful balloons. Still, it’s important that all of us — not just LGBTQ+ people, but also allies and everyone who believes in acceptance, equality, and nonviolence — have a chance to express protest and take a stand.

Moscow Community Center of LGBTQ+ initiatives is launching a virtual IDAHOBIT — an online balloon release against homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia! This is our chance to come together, to unite, to be with each other even in unsafe times. We invite you to take part in this online action and launch your own balloon in support of equality, acceptance, and love.

Launch your balloon here: https://mcclgbt.org/against_homophobia

Participation is completely safe and anonymous. No login or registration is required — just click the button and become part of this meaningful event. You can take a stand and show your support without leaving your home.

Join us! Launch a balloon, launch hope and love — take a step toward a better world!