François Legault Reminds Quebecers To 'Continue To Denounce Homophobia And Transphobia'

May 17 was first declared the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia back in 2004. This day of the year was chosen as it marks the date of "the World Health Organization's decision in 1990 to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder," May17.org explains. To commemorate this day, François Legault shared an important message to all Quebecers.

The day's importance resides in "draw[ing] the attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexuals, transgender, intersex people and all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics," as it is perfectly worded on the organization's website.

Today, it is a universal celebration of diversity.

Many government officials have taken the time to bring light to the importance of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Quebec Premier François Legault, and Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante.

Their messages are both touching and necessary.

The most important quote of the ones you will read below, I believe, is Legault reminding Quebecers that "we must continue to denounce homophobia and transphobia wholeheartedly."

May this message, while including "biphobia" in it as well, resonate with you today and every day.

Alongside François Legault's message, he added a photo of him, his wife, Valérie Plante, and Justin Trudeau walking in Montreal's 2019 Pride Parade.

Translation: "On this International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, I invite you to highlight, from a distance, the progress made in Quebec in recent decades."

"I am very proud that Quebec is now one of the most egalitarian societies in the world."

"The Day was first held in Québec in 2003, thanks to Fondation Émergence, before spreading around the world. I think it shows just how much Quebecers take this issue to heart.

"But we must also remember that we still have a long way to go. We must continue to denounce homophobia and transphobia wholeheartedly."

"It is more important than ever to remain united. 🌈"

Sunday, May 17, 2020, marks the first time that the transgender flag and the rainbow flag were seen next to each other at Montreal City Hall, according to Mayor Plante.

Plante, in her message about the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, emphasized Montreal's inclusivity.

"Let's make sure together, today and every day, that every person, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can live there safely and develop fully."

And, the Primer Minister of Canada also made sure to speak out on this day.

"We are all in this together," Trudeau said.

I proudly say that Canada is one of the 130 countries in the world that celebrates this day.