Join the School of Electronics and Computer Science in marking International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) by raising the Progress Pride Flag at Jubilee Plaza on Thursday 16 May from 09:30. All staff and students are welcome to join in raising the flag.
Dorota A. Sikorska, the Operations Manager in the School of Electronics and Computer Science, who is organising the event remarks: “I didn’t anticipate the event’s popularity among staff and students when I first initiated it in 2018. Each year, it surpasses expectations. It’s crucial to showcase solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and stand against any form of discrimination. By commemorating IDAHOBIT at Southampton, we advocate for equality and dignity for all members of our community, fostering an environment where individuals can live without fear of oppression based on their sexual orientation or gender identity”.
What’s On
IDAHOBIT Stalls
Thursday 16 May 2024, 10:00-14:00, various locations.
Visit stalls in the foyer in Building 53 and on level 1 in Building 32 (near the Lecture Theatre 1015) with sweets, fresh fruit, and gadgets to take away from 10:00 until 14:00.
The Global Fight Against LGBTQ+ Rights-Talk featuring Professor Phillip M. Ayoub, UCL
Tuesday 21 May 2024, 14:00-15:00, Building 100, Room 1001, in- person only.
Join Professor Phillip M. Ayoub’s lecture to discuss global LGBTI rights progress and challenges. He credits advancements to transnational activism, supportive governments, and evolving human rights frameworks. However, opposition from conservative forces complicates the landscape. Professor Ayoub’s research explores the interactive space where rival Transnational Advocacy Networks compete for influence.
The Cost of Exclusion: From Fiction to Fact in the LGBTQ+ Community-Talk featuring Dr Brian Pickering, UoS
Wednesday 22 May 2024, 14:00-15:00, Building 100, Room 1001, in-person only.
Join Dr Brian Pickering in unpacking the impact of the 1957 Wolfenden Report advocating for the decriminalization of male homosexuality. It highlights the struggle for recognition and the effects of legislation like Section 28. The study explores transgender identity formation online and the depiction of LGBTQ+ lifestyles, advocating for inclusivity and self-determination.
Awareness and Allyship
IDAHOBIT is a great opportunity to learn more about being part of the LGBTQIA+ community and how to be an ally. We have lots of resources to help:
- Our partner Inclusive Employers has a handy factsheet on IDAHOBIT.
- We have ‘bitesize learning’ on LGBTQ+ Inclusion.
- Read our toolkit on LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language and using pronouns.
Support available:
- Report and Support, a tool to report any form of bullying, harassment, discrimination, or abuse.
- Reach out to our Harassment contacts , a committed team of volunteers who can offer a sympathetic ear.
- Employment Assistance Programme, is a service available to all staff, providing confidential support 24/7