ROTHER District Council has marked International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT Day) with an event at the Town Hall in Bexhill.
Rother councillors and officers were joined at the event on Friday by groups and organisations including the Hastings and Rother Rainbow Alliance, Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Bexhill-on-Sea Town Council, East Sussex County Council, Bexhill Chamber of Commerce, Bexhill Academy, Rother Voluntary Action, 18 Hours, and the Bexhill Neighbourhood Board. The representatives attending helped to raise the Progress Pride flag to show their support for equality and diversity.
IDAHOBIT Day takes place on Saturday 17th May. The Day draws attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex people and all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics.
Councillor Sam Coleman, portfolio holder at Rother District Council, said: “I am proud that we fly the Progress Pride flag to recognise IDAHOBIT every year and it is more important than ever that we continue to show our unwavering support for the rights of LGBTQ+ people to live as themselves, openly, equitably and free from harm or abuse.
“As the proudly queer portfolio holder for Equalities and Wellbeing, I stand in full solidarity with the whole LGBTQ+ community, against discrimination and towards true equity.”
Mark Matthews, Chief Fire Officer at East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are committed to creating a workplace and community where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
“We proudly support IDAHOBIT Day, standing against discrimination and promoting inclusivity within our service and the communities we serve. We will continue to work towards fostering a culture of equality, respect, and understanding, ensuring that every individual has the right to be their true self without fear of prejudice or exclusion. Together, we can help create safer spaces for all.”
The Council also used the event to highlight its support for the Sussex Safe Space campaign. The Safe Space Scheme is a network of locations and venues across the county. All have signed up to offer a place for people to go to if they feel threatened or at risk of harm.
Published: 16th May 2025
