The observance originated in Canada in 2003, when the Quebec-based Fondation Émergence launched a "National Day Against Homophobia," which expanded into a global initiative in 2004 under French activist Louis-Georges Tin, who chaired its international committee until 2013. The date, 17 May, marks the anniversary of the World Health Organization's 1990 decision to remove homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases as a mental disorder. Initially known simply as the "International Day Against Homophobia," the name was formally expanded to include transphobia in 2009, and biphobia was added in 2015 in recognition of the distinct challenges faced by bisexual people. The day aims to draw the attention of policymakers, media, and the public to the violence and discrimination faced by people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity around the world, through awareness campaigns, media initiatives, and legislative advocacy calling for greater equality and legal protection.