EVERYONE can do their part to make Ballarat a more inclusive place by wearing rainbow socks.
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Darn Right I Support It – Rainbow Socks Against Homophobia is a social campaign that encourages people to wear rainbow socks to show they are an ally to same-sex attracted people.
Organiser Lorenne Ramanauskas, an engagement project officer at Zaque, works closely with LGBT youths aged 12-25 and hears the stories of how many are treated in their schools and community.
“Because I work with young same-sex attracted people, I just want to make Ballarat safe for them,” Ms Ramanauskas said.
She had the idea for International Day Against Homphobia, to design socks showing support for the LGBT community.
“By wearing the socks, you're showing you support equality for all people, and won’t stand for homophobia.”
Ms Ramanauskas said about one in 10 people identified as same-sex attracted, which gave Ballarat a possible LGB population of about 10,000.
“About 60 per cent of same-sex attracted people experience homophobia at school or in their community,” she said.
“I’d really like to see school leaders get behind this campaign, principals and teachers, to show that school can be a safe space, and there are allies there.”
To support the campaign, visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/wearrainbowsox
Post a photo of yourself wearing rainbow socks to social media platforms using the hashtag #DarnRightISupportIt.
Darn Right I Support It – Rainbow Socks are available to purchase from eBay.
