lgbt, workplace equality, marriage equality, awarenessThe International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (The International Day) will again be celebrated on May 17 this year. This "worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversities" coordinates global events that raise awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) rights all over the planet.

The International Day was first observed in 2004. May 17 was selected to commemorate the date in 1990 that the World Health Organization decided to no longer classify homosexuality as a mental disorder.

As LGBTAIQA rights awareness become more common worldwide, more and more businesses have realised the importance of diversity in both their employees and their customer base. There are a variety of good reasons for businesses to get involved and support the International Day every year.

Showing Support Creates a Culture of Inclusion

Supporting The International Day shows you choose to celebrate the rights of LGBTIQA+ people. Your support shows everyone, particularly your employees, that you want to create a culture that values diversity. This promotes better working conditions for everyone, regardless of persuasion.

An inclusion culture is also especially important at high schools, where tolerance of those not following a certain path can be low, and bullying can be rife. Educational institutions can make a stand for LGBTIQA+ rights by showing how diversity means strength and that prejudice and bigotry have no place in modern Australia. This is also a splendid way to support students who may be confused about their sexuality or have concerns about coming out by encouraging them to have confidence in who they truly are.

silicon wristband, equality, lgbt, awareness

Prove That Your Organisation Cares About Society

A recent survey showed that 72% of Australians believe in same-sex marriage, and supporting the LGBTIQA+ community shows you are in step with contemporary Australia. It shows your business is not afraid to take a stand and establishes a bond with current and future customers. Revealing that your business or organisation stands for a certain cause is an excellent branding opportunity that will help the community identify you as a forward-thinking company.

An easy way to make this point is to put news of the International Day on your company's website. It's the 21st century's way of showing solidarity and raising awareness. All elements of your social media platform can get involved, too, from Facebook posts to hashtags on Tweets.

Businesses can also encourage employees to wear ID bracelets emblazoned with International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia on May 17, as well as your company logo. You can design and order these inexpensive silicon wristbands through Handbands. It's an inexpensive way to spread the word and is a splendid gesture. Just make sure to order early, so you have plenty in stock for everyone on your staff.

It Helps You to Attract – And Retain – Diverse Candidates

Your company will retain a more talented workforce that will have less turnover than businesses that do not promote diversity like you do. Companies that celebrate diversity draw candidates from across the human spectrum because more people will want to work for you.

A diverse workforce has been proven to increase innovation and creativity. A diverse workplace allows, and even demands, the exchange of different opinions, experimentation in ways of working, and clearer communication methods. A stronger workforce and a stronger company are the results.

Awareness Bolsters Human Rights in General

Supporting diversity in general and The International Day, in particular, shows that your company supports human rights. This demonstrates that you are a good partner with your community and your world.

Being part of such a forward-thinking organisation will make staff members feel a positive sense of well-being and pride for the business, forging a stronger company and community.

It’s Good For Society

Showing that you’re a forward-thinking company is not only good for business, but it's also good for society. While attitudes towards LGBTIQA+ people are improving, there is always work to do to make our world a better place. By seizing the moment and supporting The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia - let your school, business, or organisation make a statement for a stronger Australia and a stronger world.  Start by raising awareness for this today!