LGBTI equality and human rights in Europe and Central Asia

Questions remain on International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Standing up against hatred. Working to combat prejudice. These goals have been part of the fabric of ILGA-Europe since our foundation in 1996.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March offers us a valuable opportunity to assess the work we are doing to counteract discrimination. We will continue to join forces with anti-racism groups and activists to secure stronger protection against discrimination for all; to tackle all forms of hate crimes and hate speech.

But we are not isolated from the problem. No community is immune to the insidious creep of racism and we know that the LGBTI movement is no different. ILGA-Europe acknowledge, not only is there a lot of work to do to create a wholly tolerant society, there is also much more work to do within our movement to be inclusive.

So this Saturday, we need to ask ourselves what 21 March means to the LGBTI community. We are ready to work with our member organisations to challenge our own internal prejudices and the barriers that many LGBTI people face because of their race or ethnic origin.

This is why we at ILGA-Europe want to hear from you directly – your stories, experiences, plans. Today, Evelyne asks you the question:

What are you doing to stand up against racism on 21 March?

Tell us on Facebook, on Twitter @ILGAEurope or join us on Instagram (ilgaeurope).