On this International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), we raise our collective voices louder than ever.

In a world increasingly threatened by the rise of authoritarianism, fascist ideologies, and extremist forces seeking to erase our existence, we reaffirm that we are here, and our presence is not negotiable.

This year, LGBTQIA+ people around the world are with feminist, sexual reproductive health rights, and broader social justice movements. We unite not only to denounce the rising backlash but also to celebrate our many victories — the acts of resistance, the policy wins, the communities we have built, the solidarities we have formed, the youth who bravely speak up, and the elders who guide us.

We refuse to let fear define us or our movements, even in this dreadful time where everything we built our foundation on — from empathy to multilateral human rights institutions — is under attack and dangerous anti-rights narratives diluting from the Global North endanger grassroots communities.

No matter where we come from, the colour of our skin, the socio-economic conditions we face, or the faith that drives us, everyone deserves to be respected, free to be who we are and to love whom we love.

But some politicians and religious leaders across the world still use the lives of LGBTQIA+ people—particularly trans and gender-diverse individuals–as tools of distraction and warfare for their obscurantist politics, and to steer attention away from their own failures.

We assert the non-negotiable values of humanity, dignity, and inclusion — where every person, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex characteristics, or HIV status has the right to participate fully in social, political, and economic life.

We envision a world where freedom from fear, want, and state violence is a birthright, not a privilege. A world where bodily autonomy — including access to gender-affirming care, abortion, and legal gender recognition — is respected, not debated. A world where everyone lives, loves, moves, and thrives without being targeted or silenced.

From small rural villages to major city squares, from art to protest, from classrooms to parliaments — we will show up. We will be seen. We will be heard. We call on allies, governments, civil society, and all people of conscience to join us. Not just in words, but in action. Not just on May 17, but every day. The time to show up, to speak out, to act — is now.

Communities are where we find our people. Communities are how we unite to create change. Together, we are powerful. Together, we are unstoppable.

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