The systemic and social persecution of LGBTQIA+ people has always been a major issue. Gay and bisexual people across the world continue to face discrimination in employment, marriage, healthcare and more. Many face regular bullying or are disowned, abused or forced into so-called "conversion therapy" by their families. Much of the same is true for transgender people, whose increased visibility over the past decade has lead to a significant increase in transphobic rhetoric, hate crimes and anti-trans legislation throughout many developed countries.
Smogon is proud to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and condemn this terrible state of affairs, which continues to regularly drive LGBTQIA+ individuals to depression or suicide.
With that in mind, Smogon is hosting its second Charity Bowl, a live tournament that will take place on Saturday, November 20, 2021. The Smogon Charity Bowl will be raising funds for the Trevor Project, a non-profit that focuses on suicide prevention for LBGTQIA+ youth.
For more information on how to participate in the Smogon Charity Bowl, please visit http://spo.ink/smogoncharitybowl.