Today is IDAHOBIT, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia & Transphobia. In recognition of IDAHOBIT, members of our LGBTI+ committee raised the Progressive Pride flag over Monash Medical Centre (MMC) for the first time this morning.
Pictured: (L-R) Denise Owen (she/her), Director, Digital Health Training and Adoption, Monash Health; Basem Kerbage (he/him), Corporate & Community Partnerships Coordinator, Monash Health; and Sylvia Lynch, Security, Monash Health. Copyright Monash Health.
IDAHOBIT is the chosen celebration of the Monash Health LGBTI+ committee. This day of recognition aligns with Monash Health’s Equity and Inclusion Plan, and our aim to provide an inclusive and respectful environment for all our employees, patients and visitors. It also assists in creating a culture where everyone feels safe to be themselves.
Denise Owen, Director of Digital Health Training & Adoption and LGBTI+ sub-committee lead said, “Flying the Progressive Pride flag at Monash Health sends a powerful message that we, as an organisation, value and support our LGBTIQA+ community.”
“Seeing the flag flying at our Monash Medical Centre for the first time today, I thought of all our LGBTI+ employees, patients and visitors who will feel accepted and respected when they see this symbol of our support. The significance of this clear message of support for our LGBTIQA+ community cannot be overstated,” she added.
Basem Kerbage, Corporate & Community Partnerships Coordinator and LGBTI+ committee member commented, “Seeing the flag raised today brought a tear to my eye. It was only 32 years ago that the World Health Organization (WHO) declassified homosexuality as a disease. Today we have Monash Health, Victoria’s largest integrated health service provider raising a flag in support of the LGBTIQA+ community. It really shows the progress made.”
He added, “it has a profound impact on me personally, but it also has wider meaning for our community – our employees, patients and visitors. As an organisation we are sending a subtle message that we are accepting, and we welcome you.”
History of the Pride Flag
The multi-coloured Rainbow Flag, designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978 is widely recognised as a powerful symbol of pride for the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2018, Daniel Quasar updated the design to place emphasis on inclusion and progression.
In addition to the six-coloured rainbow flag, the progressive pride flag includes a chevron design with the colours pink, light blue and white, used on the Transgender Pride flag, and a black and brown stripe to represent marginalized LGBTQIA+ communities of colour.
Copyright Monash Health.
As the largest health organisation in Victoria, it is important we take time to celebrate our LGBTQIA+ employees and provide a safe and inclusive environment for all.