Today, as HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement, we proudly join the global movement in commemorating the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community in the MENA region, where the struggle for equality and acceptance remains an ongoing battle.
In the MENA region, LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges and discrimination, often resulting in marginalization, stigmatization, and even violence. As an organization committed to human rights, we believe that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
IDAHOBIT serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of promoting and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the MENA region. It allows us to raise awareness, challenge societal prejudices, and advocate for legal reforms that ensure equality, inclusivity, and non-discrimination.
At HuMENA, we are dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ communities, amplifying their voices, and working towards creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes civic engagement. We collaborate with local activists, organizations, and allies to challenge discriminatory practices, advocate for legal reforms, and provide support to individuals who face violence or discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
We are immensely proud of our LGBTQ+ colleagues who work tirelessly alongside us, contributing their unique perspectives and insights to our mission. Their dedication and unwavering commitment to human rights inspire us every day.
Today, as we commemorate IDAHOBIT, we also want to pay tribute to our late friend and colleague, Sarah Hegazi. Sarah was a shining example of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity. Her activism, both within our organization and beyond, served as a beacon of hope for countless individuals in the MENA region and beyond. We honor Sarah’s memory and continue to fight for the causes she championed.
We call upon governments, civil society organizations, and individuals across the MENA region to join us in recognizing the importance of IDAHOBIT and to actively work towards creating a society where LGBTQ+ individuals are free to live authentically, without fear of discrimination or persecution.
Let us use this day as a catalyst for change, spreading awareness, educating communities, and fostering dialogue that leads to greater acceptance and understanding. Together, we can build a future in the MENA region where diversity is celebrated, where everyone can live with dignity and equality, and where love knows no boundaries.
