On Tuesday, May 14, Mitchell Youth Services celebrated the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia in Seymour.
Young people aged 12 to 18 were invited to the Seymour Youth Room at Chittick Park to enjoy games and other activities such as a tie-dye workshop, merchandise and an ice-cream truck.
Mitchell Youth Council member Jeremy Stute joined the council because of IDAHOBIT.
“I support the LGBTQ community because they really don’t get enough support nowadays,” he said.
“They do need that extra bit of support, which I’m all for.
“I will literally spend all day supporting them.
“That’s pretty much, that’s why I joined; so I could help create days or workshops where those people can feel included.”
Jeremy is a Year 8 student at Broadford Secondary College and has helped set up IDAHOBIT events throughout Mitchell Shire.
“It’s a very big transition getting from a child to an adult or from a teenager to an adult, so I think it’s important to learn about the LGBT community and homophobia to know that there’s always going to be people who aren’t going to be supportive or always going to say very not nice things,” he said.
“But there are people who do support you, which you should focus on more than the people who are bringing you down.”
Mayor Louise Bannister said Mitchell Shire Council was proud to support and celebrate IDAHOBIT.
“This day, observed globally on 17 May, is crucial for raising awareness of the discrimination and challenges faced by the LGBTIQA+ community,” she said.
“Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals is reflected in the series of events we organised.
“These events are designed to provide safe, inclusive and fully supervised spaces for young people aged 12 to 18.
“By hosting these gatherings, we aim to empower our youth, promote understanding and support diversity in our community.”
Ms Bannister said it was essential for local governments to lead by example in advocating for equality and respect for everyone, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
Jeremy said he had peers who were confident enough to come out to him about their sexuality, and he appreciated the trust a lot.
“Don’t feel pressured into telling anyone unless you’re comfortable with it,” he said.
Jeremy said he had a friend who came out to their family member and was pressured into coming out to the rest of the family.
“(It) isn’t a very good thing,” he said.
“You don’t have to tell anyone if you don’t want to, I highly suggest (you do) because otherwise it’s going to eat you.
“But take your time telling people.”
Ms Bannister said council was dedicated to continuing these efforts not just on IDAHOBIT but throughout the year, reinforcing its commitment to a community where everyone could feel valued and included.