A Statement of Solidarity

Wexford Pride stands in solidarity with Wicklow Pride, who have announced the cancellation of their Rainbow Disco due to safety concerns. Furthermore, we wish to commend Wicklow Pride for their work in establishing a Pride festival that attempts to provide a space for the whole LGBTQIA+ community to come together and celebrate. We also stand with Wicklow Pride in highlighting why Pride is still necessary in 2024. 

In recent weeks, we have witnessed queerphobic and misogynistic violence and hate that continues to be encouraged by a vocal minority who stand to benefit from planting seeds of division across our communities. We know how LGBTQIA+ people, particularly those who live at the intersections of queerness, race, disability, class and gender, have been continuously and systematically failed by structures of justice. The opposition we face is fringe. It is not reflected within the broader Irish community.  LGBTQIA+ people and our allies celebrate the diversity, strength and joy of being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. We are also reminded of the power of gathering in solidarity in the face of injustices that seek to threaten or erase us. 

We will not be erased. 

Crucially, LGBTQIA+ young people deserve to access safe spaces where they are supported, empowered and embraced for their authentic selves. The safety concerns that led to the cancellation of the Rainbow Disco are real and we applaud Wicklow Pride for taking this difficult decision. We are also deeply saddened that it is one less chance for LGBTQIA+ young people to safely be themselves.

This summer, there are over 50 pride festivals taking place across the country. These events and community spaces are organised by dedicated and passionate volunteers, activists and advocates, who continue to challenge and reimagine what it means to be LGBTQIA+ in rural and urban Ireland. We encourage LGBTQIA+ people and our allies to get out and support them, to make it clear that LGBTQIA+ people are recognised, included and celebrated as a valuable part of broader Irish rural and urban communities. We look forward to joining Wicklow Pride on Saturday, July 6.

In solidarity, 

Wexford Pride

If you have been affected by recent events, you are not alone, you can access support by visiting https://lgbt.ie/