Impact

A sign of solidarity: Rainbow flag for IDAHOBIT Day

16/05/2025

Every year on May 17, the rainbow flag is raised on the WU campus.

This is an important symbol of diversity in lifestyles, sexual orientations, and gender identities. This day is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia, commemorating the World Health Organization's (WHO) decision on May 17, 1990, to remove homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses.

“IDAHOBIT is very important to our university because it reminds us of how important diversity and respect are for campus life. On this day, we’re sending out a strong message against anti-queer discrimination and prejudice. By raising the rainbow flag, we affirm WU’s commitment to providing a respectful and inclusive environment where all members of the WU community feel safe and valued. Let’s all pull together to strengthen solidarity and a culture of open-mindedness at WU,” says WU Rector Rupert Sausgruber.

This year, the rainbow flag will also be visible across our campus throughout Pride Month. Every June is Pride Month, when LGBTIQ* communities around the world come together to celebrate their freedom and diversity and protest against existing discrimination. In times of exclusion, prejudice, and violence against queer people, we at WU want to send a strong message of solidarity and respectful coexistence by flying the rainbow flag.

At WU, we are committed to a safe and inclusive campus life where everyone can work together in a spirit of trust and equality. Let's work together to promote a climate of appreciation and openness.

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