Gay and lesbian groups across Ireland will mark International Day Against Homophobia (Idaho) with calls for an end to discrimination.
The first Idaho was observed on May 17th, 2005. It was established to mark the anniversary of the World Health Organization removing homosexuality from its roster of mental disorders in 1990.
This year Idaho will be observed in over 50 countries, from Guyana to Sri Lanka to Canada, England, the Ivory Coast, Russia, and Japan.
The Union of Students of Ireland (USI) will mark the day by calling on politicians to oppose the prejudice experienced by gay people at home and abroad.
USI President Colm Hamrogue said eradicating discrimination would be a major issue for many voters in the general election.
"Ending prejudice will be a genuine concern for Irish voters at the ballot box next week," he said. "Fair-minded voters will want to recognise candidates with a record of opposing legal discrimination and fighting for legal equality."
The USI said discriminatory laws stigmatise Ireland's gay community, fostering prejudices that can lead to a rise in hate crimes.
