Programming for the 2021 Edition of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia Unveiled

This year's theme, For some, showing their colours isn't a choice, aims to denounce physical violence and emotional abuse against LGBTQ+ people that results from homophobic and transphobic behaviours and attitudes. In recent years, human rights organizations have witnessed a significant increase in violence against LGBTQ+ people in North America and internationally—sometimes leading to death.

Given the pandemic, activities for the 19th edition of the Day will be held online.

Awareness campaign and microsite

To grab the attention of people in Quebec, across Canada and internationally, an awareness campaign will be launched on urban billboards, social media and the web. There will also be a video. Fondation Émergence met with a dozen LGBTQ+ people who have suffered violence and who courageously agreed to tell their stories. The bruises from the physical wounds suffered by LGBTQ+ people were joined together to recreate the pride flag as a symbol of resilience and the triumph of equality over marginalization, exclusion, and violence.

The elements of the campaign are being unveiled today, along with the new microsite at http//thecoloursofpride.com/. Once again, the Rethink Agency, in partnership with the Foundation, developed all the tools and creative pieces for the campaign. The Day's previous campaigns have won awards in numerous creative competitions, including the One Show in New York, Crea from Infopresse, the International Festival of Creativity in Cannes and the Marketing Awards.

The new microsite also presents a number of ways to take concrete action and make a difference in the LGBTQ+ community by promoting the Day and its message to your family, friends and colleagues.

Awareness and engagement tools

Various resources including a brochure and posters can be downloaded or ordered in print form from the Day's official website at www.may17mai.com. These resources are available in over 20 languages.

Awards ceremony

As is the case each year, the Fondation Émergence will announce the recipients of the Laurent McCutcheon Award, the Janette Bertrand Award, the Prix Coup de Coeur and the Academic Tribute Award. These awards are given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and made a tangible difference in advancing LGBTQ+ equality.

The names of the recipients will be announced in the week of May 10 via press release. The recipients will also be featured and interviewed during a special program presented by Monique Giroux and broadcast on Fondation Émergence's social networks on May 17 at 6 p.m. ET. For more information visit https//www.prixemergence.org/ (in French only).