IDAHOBIT on Res: Celebrating Community and Belonging

At Deakin Res, community is at the heart of everything we do, and IDAHOBIT Day is an important opportunity for us to celebrate inclusion, stand against discrimination, and continue creating spaces where everyone feels safe, respected and welcome.

IDAHOBIT stands for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia, recognising the importance of visibility, allyship and celebrating LGBTQIA+ communities.

Across our residences, students and staff will be coming together to learn, connect and celebrate in ways that reflect the vibrant and welcoming culture of Res.

And of course, it all ties back to our RESPECT values - creating communities built on kindness, inclusion, support and belonging for every resident.

Celebrating Across Our Campuses

Our residences will each be marking IDAHOBIT in their own unique way, with events designed to bring people together and encourage connection.

At Warrnambool, residents will be getting creative by making rainbow tie-dye shirts, while official IDAHOBIT posters and flags brighten the space in celebration and support of the LGBTIQA+ community.

In Geelong, residents will have the opportunity to participate in an LGBTIQA+ Allyship & Inclusion Workshop hosted by Deakin’s Equity & Inclusion team, followed by a Fortnightly Feast featuring Noodle Box.

The workshop invites residents to deepen their understanding of LGBTIQA+ inclusion through meaningful conversations and practical learning. Residents will explore topics including gender identity, sexual orientation, allyship and inclusive leadership, while hearing lived experiences and gaining tools to help foster safe and respectful communities.

Meanwhile at Burwood, residents will take to the village walking paths with a colourful Pride Chalk Art event, transforming shared spaces with messages of inclusion, creativity and pride.

And the celebrations won’t stop there.

Throughout the coming weeks, Burwood will also host:

• A Pride Movie Night featuring ‘Love, Simon’

• A Pride Flag Painting event

• Another much-loved Drag Bingo event following the huge success of the last one

These events continue to create opportunities for residents to connect, celebrate diversity and enjoy memorable experiences together in a welcoming environment.

Building Inclusive Communities on Res

One of the things we’re most proud of at Deakin Res is the strong sense of community our residents create together.

We know that feeling safe, seen and supported where you live matters. Residents have shared how much they value the inclusive living options and welcoming communities on Res, helping LGBTIQA+ students and allies feel comfortable, connected and at home.

Alongside these housing options, initiatives such as Queer Rooms, allyship workshops and inclusive community events all contribute to making Res a place where students can truly be themselves.

Everyone Belongs Here

IDAHOBIT is not only a day of celebration, but also a reminder of the importance of standing together against discrimination and continuing to build inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.

At Deakin Res, we want every resident to feel safe, supported and empowered to be themselves. Through events, conversations and community connection, we continue working toward what it means to truly Belong Better.

Whether you’re attending an event, learning more about allyship, creating chalk art with friends or simply showing support, every action helps strengthen the welcoming and connected culture that makes Deakin Res so special.