Despite the seemingly liberal attitude towards the LGBTI community in Thailand, millions of people still suffer from discrimination in the workplace, verbal and physical abuse at school, as well as high rates of HIV risks and other health concerns. There's still a lot to be done to educate the public and raise awareness, especially among young people.
On the occasion of this year's IDAHOT Thailand 2015, here are some highlight activities throughout the week-long celebration at the BACC:
Thai graphic designer Sansern Rianthong, aka Zooddooz, creates pixel art live at the plaza of BACC to reflect the diversity of the LGBT community in Thailand, and address the fact that many individuals still cannot fully express their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
May 12, 5-9pm
Veteran actor Wannasak Sirilar's fun story-telling session on gay and transgender life through
Lum Tad style, and the fabulous
Pangina Heals' drag queen performance followed by a talk with
Sarina Thai, the first Thai transgender model to walk the New York Fashion Week runway.
May 13, 5-7pm
Free screening of three films from the Attitude Short Film Festival, with post-film discussions with the actors and directors. Held in at the same time at three other events in China, the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
May 15, 6pm-9pm
Stop by the plaza of the BACC for a free live concert by the talented local jazz artist against the colorful rainbow backdrop, supported by the Embassy of Canada in Thailand.
May 16, 5-6pm
Take part in this public art project and express yourself by painting, palming and printing to embrace diversity. The artwork will be exhibited later on in November along with art pieces by lesbians, bisexual women and transgenders from all walks of life. Contact tearongnamcha@gmail.com or 081-445-0163 for more details.
May 17, 1-5pm
The BMA officially opens the commemoration of IDAHOT, plus cultural performances by Bangkok Cheerleaders, Balla & Juno from The Voice Thailand, Mimosa Pattaya and speeches by special guests. Run by Channel 3's Meesuk Jangmeesuk.
May 17, 6pm-9pm
Visit the official website here for a full schedule for more talks and workshops. And if you're busy on those days, the light installation remains through May 19.
IDAHOT is celebrated in more than 100 countries across the world to combat discrimination. May 17 was chosen as it was also the day that the WHO declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder for the first time, back in 1990.
BACC, Rama 1 Rd. BTS National Stadium
