INDIGO Shire Council held its second annual IDAHOBIT (International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination) community gathering on 14 May in Rutherglen.

Building on the successful celebrations held in Beechworth last year, this year's public event emphasised themes of unity, respect, and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.

Around 50 people of all ages gathered at Rutherglen's Lions Park, joined by representatives from Victoria Police and various LGBTQIA+ community organisations.

IDAHOBIT day is celebrated globally on 17 May each year and encourages education, awareness, and a stand against discrimination.

Mayor Sophie Price opened the event, expressing pride in the growing attendance at Council's IDAHOBIT celebrations each year, highlighting the shire's ongoing leadership and dedication to creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued and included.

“This year's IDAHOBIT theme, ‘The Power of Communities’, speaks directly to what we value in our shire,” she said.

“It reminds us that when we come together, neighbours, friends, colleagues, and allies, we create networks of support that can transform lives.”

Cr Price thanked the crowd for coming together to support the day and said while there is still more work to be done in creating a truly equitable society, she takes immense pride in standing united with the community against discrimination.

The ceremony also included a speech from Rutherglen High School Year 12 student Finn Welsh on how important it is to acknowledge and celebrate IDAHOBIT.

Finn spoke about the challenges she has faced, but also the support received from her school and community and the importance of events like IDAHOBIT in allowing people to take the first step and to be themselves.

Cr Price was joined by Finn and Nikki James from the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation in raising the rainbow flag, communicating a definitive message that Indigo Shire embraces diversity and stands firmly against discrimination and isolation.