The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), marks the World Health Organisation’s decision on 17 May 1990 to remove the classification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, in the International Classification of Diseases.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Robert Heron, said the raising of the rainbow flag shows the city understands its diverse cultures.
“Sunderland continues to support IDAHO Day and the flag-raising event demonstrates a commitment to understanding and celebrating the cultures that make Sunderland special,” he said.
“The City Council is a Stonewall Diversity champion and it is only fitting that we use IDAHOT Day to make it clear that unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation are unacceptable in our city.”