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Background

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community  in Lebanon face complex layers of oppression, where legal, economic, and social factors contribute to long-ingrained historical marginalization. Cornerstone in this is the explicit denial of LGBT rights in the Lebanese Penal Code’s Article 534, which is interpreted by law enforcement and the judiciary as criminalizing homosexuality and legalizing heterosexism.

Thus was born Helem, a voice calling for tolerance in Lebanon. Since its official creation in 2004, Helem has quickly become a regional reference for LGBT rights and a safe haven for persecuted individuals in need of support and services. Before we can call for a change in the legal system that would abolish Article 534 of the Lebanese Penal Code, we must first rally enough public support. To achieve public support in a society that still condemns homosexuality as a shameful crime and taboo, we need to conduct large-scale awareness campaigns that would carry gradual messages of tolerance and diversity.

For the third consecutive year Helem is organizing the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) on the 12^th May 2007 At Masrah al madina, Hamra, Beirut at 2.00 PM

Event Details

Supporters Expo

We are inviting a number of human rights, women’s rights, and other civil groups to exhibit their projects in Masrah Al Madina in Hamra on May 12^th. These NGOs will voice their support of and collaboration with Helem’s goals of anti-tolerance and discrimination.

Poster Competition

Graphic designers and design students are asked to design posters depicting homophobia or the fight against it. A jury of experts will pick the winning design which will be offered a prize. All posters will be exhibited at the Masrah Al Madina.

Panels

Three discussion panels will be presented on May 12^th during the International Day Against Homophobia expo. These will cover the subjects of:

1. The culture of discrimination.
2. Fighting Homophobia in the context of development.

Distinguished panellists who are experts in their fields will be speaking.

Movie Screening

Mithly methelkon: by Helem (45’)

Affinity: Corine Shawy (30’)

With the support of: