Coventry flies the flag to say No to Homophobia

14th May 2009

Coventry Conservatives are supporting International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHoT) and will be on hand at a stall and balloon release in Coventry city centre on Saturday, May 16, to raise awareness of homophobia and trans-phobia. The event has been organised by the Coventry Partnership and  seventy-five balloons will be released at mid-day from Broadgate to represent the number of countries where it's still a criminal offence to be gay, lesbian or bisexual or where people are punished or imprisoned because of their sexuality, along with a further 7 to represent those countries where homosexuality is punishable by death.

Cllr Chris Cliffe commented;

"The Conservative controlled Council takes the issue of equality very seriously. We are proud to be involved with IDAHoT again this year and the Council House will be flying the rainbow flag to show our support. I will also be on hand in Broadgate to help mark IDAHoT on Saturday."

This year’s IDAHoT is entitled 'We're Saying No to Homophobia and Transphobia' with many senior members of the community supporting the theme, including the Lord Mayor, Council's new Chief Executive, Martin Reeves and Chief Superintendent Deborah Harrod. The day is an opportunity to highlight homophobia by promoting and hoping for a prejudice-free world and to celebrate the contribution of gay men and women to society.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses homophobia or transphobia should report it to the police on 0845 113 5000 or telephone 024 7683 2118.

Alternatively, visit www.coventry.gov.uk/hatecrime for more information.