Student Wellbeing 

Celebrating Diversity!

Over the past week the Wantirna Pride Club celebrated IDAHOBIT day. The group, supported by Wantirna staff came together with a fundraising stall, music, and smiles with heaps of colour to raise awareness of this awesome day. So lets talk IDAHOBIT, what it means and why its important. 

What is IDAHOBIT Day?

Hey everyone! Have you ever heard of IDAHOBIT Day? Every year on May 17th, people around the world come together to celebrate this special day – the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. It's all about raising awareness and standing up against the discrimination that LGBTQ+ people face. It's also a time to spread the message of acceptance and equality for everyone, no matter who they love or how they identify.

How IDAHOBIT Day Started

So, here's a bit of history for you. IDAHOBIT Day was created in 2004 by a French activist named Louis-Georges Tin. The date, May 17th, is special because it marks the day in 1990 when the World Health Organisation stopped classifying homosexuality as a mental disorder. Pretty wild to think that was only a few decades ago! This was a huge step forward in recognizing that LGBTQ+ identities are normal and valid.

Why IDAHOBIT Day is Important

Even though there has been a lot of progress, many LGBTQ+ individuals still face challenges like discrimination and violence. IDAHOBIT Day is a reminder that there's still work to be done to achieve true equality and acceptance. It encourages everyone to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and work towards a world where everyone is treated with respect.

How People Celebrate IDAHOBIT Day

IDAHOBIT Day celebrations are as diverse as the LGBTQ+ community itself. Here are some ways people celebrate:

• Educational Events: Schools and community groups often hold workshops and talks to educate people about LGBTQ+ issues.
• Public Gatherings: Marches, rallies, and vigils are organized to honour those affected by homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia and to demand change.
• Social Media Campaigns: People use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to share messages of support and personal stories.
• Artistic Expressions: Art exhibits, plays, and film screenings showcase LGBTQ+ voices and experiences.

How You Can Get Involved

Getting involved in IDAHOBIT Day can be meaningful and fun. Here are some ways you can take part:

Learn and Share Educate yourself about LGBTQ+ issues and share what you learn with friends and family. Watch documentaries, read articles, or listen to podcasts.

Show Your SupportWear rainbow colours or symbols to show solidarity. Post supportive messages on social media and join online campaigns.

Join Events Participate in local or virtual events to connect with others who support LGBTQ+ rights. Listen to stories, join discussions, and maybe even make new friends.

Advocate for Change Support policies and initiatives that promote equality. This can include signing petitions, contacting representatives, or volunteering with LGBTQ+ organisations.

IDAHOBIT Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. By celebrating IDAHOBIT Day, we commit to creating a world where everyone can live with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. As a school community, let’s use this day to learn, support, and celebrate the diversity that makes us all stronger every day of the year.

Get involved and show our support! Together, we can make a difference.

Don't Forget Breakfast Club!

Youth Support Services 

headspace: visit headspace.org.au to find your nearest centre or call headspace on 

1800 650 890.

Kids Helpline: 

1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au 

ReachOut: reachout.com.au 

SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org

National 24/7 crisis services 

Lifeline:13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au 

EACH Community Health: 1300 003 224  

Knox Youth Services: 9298 8469  

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au 

beyondblue: 

1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au

Student Wellbeing Team

Email: wellbeing@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au

Ashleigh Bibby - Leader of Wellbeing

Guiseppe Relia – Wellbeing Counsellor 

Talea-Jane Simpson – Wellbeing Counsellor

Sanela Avdic - Wellbeing Counsellor

Lea Marrison - Mental Health Practitioner

Tajinder Wulff - Mental Health Practitioner

Katrina Gyngell - Mental Health Practitioner