International day against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia celebrated in Rochdale

The progress flag was raised for the international day against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia: Councillors Ashley Dearnley, Neil Emmott, Ali Ahmed and Janet Emsley with Carl Austin-Behan

Residents of the borough of Rochdale came together to celebrate the international day against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia (IDAHOBIT).

The progress flag was raised at Number One Riverside by deputy mayor Ali Ahmed and leader of the council Neil Emmott to mark the day, which is celebrated on 17 May.

The progress flag features trans colours on the traditional pride rainbow background alongside a black and brown stripe, both representing marginalised people of colour in the LGBTQ+ community

Councillor Ahmed was joined by Carl Austin-Behan – LGBT advisor to Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and steering group member of Rochdale in Rainbows, the borough’s Pride identity – plus other local councillors and residents.

IDAHOBIT is the largest global event for sexual and gender diversity with over 1,000 events taking place in more than 120 countries worldwide.

The day draws attention to the discrimination experienced by LGBT+ people internationally, as 70 per cent of the world’s population live under laws and regulations that limit freedom of expression around sexual orientation and gender identity.