The City of Wolverhampton Council will be marking International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT) next month in celebration of the city’s diverse sexualities and gender identities.

IDAHOT aims to co-ordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT+ rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT+ rights work worldwide. The day was conceived in 2004 and is now celebrated by more than 130 countries.

The IDAHOT flag will be raised on the piazza outside the Civic Centre on Friday 17 May to mark the occasion, followed by a presentation in the Council Chamber which will look at how education can play a part in bringing together different communities to understand what can be done to help end prejudice against the LGBT+ community. Speakers will offer their perspectives on the topic as well as their thoughts on LGBT+ inclusivity.

Martyn Sargeant, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Head of Governance, said: “International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is a way of highlighting and educating others around issues faced in the LGBT+ community and making them visible to everyone.

“We are proud to have such a diverse workforce and as a council inclusivity is important as demonstrated by this event. I would like to encourage all employees and members of community groups or local residents who have an interest in LGBT+ equality in education to attend.”

The event is open to all. The flag raising will take place at 9.50am, with the presentation in the Council Chamber between 10.20am and 12.30pm. To book places at the presentation, please visit Eventbrite.