COMMUNITY ORGANISATION

VOLUNTEER STAFF

AWARD RECIPIENT

Kingdom Pride Kerry

After pandemic lockdowns cancelled their first Pride festival in 2020, Kingdom Pride volunteers continued to show up for their LGBTQ+ community as Kerry’s official Pride organisation, even when that meant being subjected to intimidation and harassment by protestors at Tralee Library. 

In 2023, thanks to their incredible volunteer staff, the organisation hosted a seven-day Pride festival featuring over 33 events across seven locations. The trans-inclusive event included educational talks, workshops, and burlesque entertainment.

On the night of the GALAS, the team said they were humbled and honoured to accept the award, and were especially thankful for the community support that helped make them “the biggest little Pride” in Ireland. Since one of their team members was in the hospital, the whole GALAS crowd recorded a message singing, “Get well soon!” to send good wishes while she recovers.

NOMINEES

Small Trans Library

This invaluable community resource offers a lending library of 400+ LGBTQ+ books and monthly community social events including reading groups, writing workshops, and live community events that provide a platform for trans creators to showcase their work. They also established a mutual aid fund to support trans people in Ireland who are facing financial hardships.

Na Gaeil Aeracha

This community sports organisation established in 2020 provides a safe and inclusive space for all LGBTQ+ people to play gaelic football. Na Gaeil Aeracha lobbied for trans inclusivity in sport and established a trans inclusive policy in the LGFA.

Equality For Children

Equality For Children advocates for equal rights for the children of LGBTQ+ couples. They ensure that children’s voices are heard at a policy-making level and work to end discrimination by demanding that children of LGBTQ+ parents receive the same benefits and services that children of heterosexual parents are given.

by Nicole Lee

PAID STAFF

AWARD RECIPIENT

LGBT Ireland

LGBT Ireland was recognised for the support services, training, and advocacy campaigns they have offered over the past 13 years. Their National LGBT Helpline supports thousands of people every year, and continued to operate throughout Covid-19 pandemic closures. LGBT Ireland offers essential community workshops and tirelessly advocates for hate crime legislation in Ireland.

Upon accepting the award, the team gave thanks to all of their volunteers past and present, as well as the staff for their passion, commitment, and humour as they keep driving for equality.

NOMINEES

Midlands LGBT+ Project

The Midlands LGBT+ Project are a support organisation who have had an incredible impact on the Midlands Region of Laois, Offaly, Westmeath, and Kildare. Established and spearheaded by Christina Fitzharris, they organise Pride events, offer educational talks, social events, and provide necessary supports.

LGBTQ Development Project (Cumann na Daoine)

This community-based organisation supports LGBTQ+ people in Younghal, Co Cork by providing an accessible and welcoming resource centre for local groups. The group also published a report highlighting the challenges LGBTQ+ people face in rural and remote areas.

Dundalk Outcomers

Since the 1990’s, Dundalk Outcomers has been providing visibility and vital support for LGBTQ+ people in rural areas. As one of the only LGBTQ+ support groups in the North-East, they provide invaluable resources and support for people of all ages across three counties.

by Nicole Lee