The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission joins the LGBTQI members across the country in celebrating International Day against Homophobia, Trans-phobia & Biphobia today.

HRADC Chair, Ashwin Raj says the theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Justice and Protection for All’ – which is significant for the LGBTQI communities.

Raj says the reality on the ground is that despite the constitutionally guaranteed right to equality, LGBTQI persons continue to face physical violence, verbal abuse, hate speech and bullying on social media platforms.

This also includes discrimination in accessing employment, health services and housing, unfair treatment at the hands of the law enforcement agencies and separation from families.

He adds LGBTQI persons with disabilities and sex workers are subjected to further discrimination and in the absence of a support system, some live in depression and end up committing suicide.

Raj says acceptance, respect, equal access and opportunities for LGBTQI communities will only materialize if the nation as a whole pledge to treat them equally.

The LGBTQI stakeholders will be holding a PRIDE March today, from the Suva Flea Market to the Sukuna Park followed by a PRIDE rally.