West Sussex flies rainbow flag for IDAHO

THE multi-coloured rainbow flag, international symbol of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, was flying from West Sussex County Council buildings today (Thursday, May 17).

By The Newsroom

Published 17th May 2012, 21:09 BST

It was flown to mark IDAHO – the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia – launched nine years ago.

Hundreds of associations in more than 50 countries have used the day to raise public and political awareness of LGBT rights.

The event is held on May 17 because that is the anniversary of the World Health Organisation’s decision in 1990 to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.

County council leader Louise Goldsmith said: “Flying the rainbow flag from our offices is a highly visible demonstration of our continuing commitment to LGBT initiatives.

“Homophobic bullying is totally unacceptable as, indeed, is any form of bullying.”

She confirmed the council will have a stand at the famous Brighton Pride event on September 1.