International Day Against Homophobia tackles discrimination in sports, society

The silence must be stopped

The International Day Against Homophobia comes to Atlanta today and will include a proclamation from the City of Atlanta recognizing the day. The proclamation will be presented to organizers by openly gay state Rep. Karla Drenner (D-Avondale Estates.).

The event is from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Virginia-Highland Church, 743 Virginia Ave., NE ,Atlanta, GA 30306.

The event is organized by queer radio show “Alternative Perspectives,” which airs every Tuesday from 7 p.m.-8 p.m. on 89.3 FM WRFG.

The theme this year for the event held across the globe is “Silence in Sports,” and addressing homophobia in athletics.  Anne Barr, founder of the mostly lesbian Decatur Women’s Sports League, will speak on the topic.

Before the event beginning at 6 p.m., straight ally and activist Laura Gentle and members of her “Shirt Off My Back Campaign,” will meet at 5 p.m. at Piedmont Park and march to the church as a way to bring awareness to the plight of LGBT homeless youth.