Chinese online users have shown their support for the LGBTQ+ community on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOTB), which takes place today (17 May). The day aims to raise awareness of the challenges that people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sexual characteristics still face.
On Weibo, the hashtags “#517 the day to stand against homophobia” (#517不再恐同日#) and “#love is love” gained 1.02 billion and 970 million views respectively.
“Love is love. Love isn’t determined by race, nationality, or gender. Everyone is equal when it comes to love. ”
“Love shouldn’t be defined and be misunderstood. It’s okay if you don’t agree with other people, but you should respect them.”
Comments from Weibo users
Many netizens shared their support via the hashtag pages or on LGBTQ+ pages online. Some users also posted educational videos to raise awareness about the types of discrimination that the LGBTQ+ community face.
