HRC Foundation in advance of Sunday’s observance of the 2020 International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB), is recognizing the power of leaders around the world who are fighting to advance equality for the LGBTQ community and for all people. 

“The Human Rights Campaign is proud to celebrate and stand with the global leaders fighting to end human rights abuses against the LGBTQ community as we reaffirm that homophobia, transphobia and biphobia have no place in our societies,” said HRC President Alphonso David. “Every day, we see heartbreaking incidents of oppression, discrimination, and terrible violence against LGBTQ people around the world. Human rights abuses against LGBTQ people anywhere are human rights abuses against LGBTQ people everywhere. The global leaders who are leading the charge to end human rights abuses against our community and all communities give us the hope that we all need to continue the fight at home and abroad.”

“During this unprecedented pandemic, HRC is doubly committed to continuing to partnerwith LGBTQ advocates across the world,” said HRC Director of Global Partnerships Jean Freedberg. “Over the years, HRC Global has built a strong network of global advocates through our global programs--which now consists of more than 150 amazing, courageous and passionate advocates and allies from some 90 countries-- who are creating innovative, smart and durable solutions to advance equality in their home countries. In this unprecedented time, we will continue to provide virtual capacity-building programming and micro-grants to support and strengthen their work.” 

“This year, IDAHOTB has more meaning than ever, at least for me, a lesbian non-binary human who lives as a refugee in Europe in the time of COVID-19,” said Andrea Ayala, HRC Global Innovator  from El Salvador. “This feeling of isolation is not a new feeling for many LGBTIQ people and reminds us all of the importance of having a community and network that support us whenever we struggle.”

“We’re living in a time where we are all experiencing a deep sense of uncertainty, anxiety and fear,” said Tashwill Esterhuizen, HRC Global Innovator from South Africa. “LGBTQ people who often face barriers in many aspects of their lives, such as economic exclusion and access to services, are being pushed further into the margins. We must use IDAHOTB as a moment to recognize the importance of building solidarity, inclusivity, hope and courage.”

“Humanity is facing an unprecedented crisis with the COVID-19 pandemic, and the situation is more bleak for the transgender members of my community,” said Jannat Ali, a Global Innovator from Pakistan. “And that is why I am proud to be a part of campaigns urging the Pakistani government and civil society to extend priority assistance to transgender communities. Any and all relief efforts should be inclusive and equitable, and that means making sure that we do not forget marginalized transgender communities in Pakistan.”