PATRICK BRACKEN

Recognised for championing inclusivity in rural Ireland, Wicklow Pride Chair and Co-Founder Patrick Bracken was shortlisted for Person of the Year at the GALAS. Ahead of the ceremony, he spoke to Ethan Moser about the organisation’s successes and what the nomination means for him.

Patrick Bracken, nominated for Person of the Year at this year’s GALAS Awards, co-founded Wicklow Pride with his partner, Dave Thomas, in 2015. “It all started in 2012 when we set up the Arklow LGBT social drop-in group to provide a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ people in the area,” Bracken told GCN.

“We had our first Pride event in 2014 in Arklow, which we then rebranded as the Wicklow Pride Festival in 2015, which was launched by our patron, the then-senator, David Norris. As the group grew, it became clear that there was a need for something larger to represent the entire county, and that’s when Wicklow Pride was born,” Bracken added.

He said that promoting Pride is “incredibly meaningful”, explaining that “it’s about visibility and creating a sense of belonging, especially in rural areas where people can often feel isolated. Pride is more than just a celebration— it’s about fostering connections, raising awareness, and ensuring that everyone in our community feels seen, valued, and supported. It’s been amazing to witness the positive change and unity that Pride has brought to Wicklow.”

However, it has not always been easy. The organisation was forced to postpone its Rainbow Disco in June after facing a series of “malicious accusations” and threats. Despite these challenges, Patrick and his team have persisted with their fantastic work, growing from strength to strength.

Speaking on the recent successes and initiatives of Wicklow Pride, Bracken told GCN: “It has been a privilege to see our organisation grow into a vibrant and inclusive community. Since our inception, we’ve been committed to fostering a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals in Wicklow, and our efforts are continually evolving to meet the needs of our community.

“One of our most important initiatives this year has been expanding our focus on youth representation. We were thrilled to bring Bee Fennell on board as our Youth Ambassador. Bee’s role is vital, as they represent the voice of young queer people in Wicklow—a group that is often underrepresented and faces unique challenges. Bee’s presence has allowed us to connect more deeply with the younger generation, helping to ensure that their concerns, ideas, and aspirations are integral to everything we do.

“Another major milestone for us has been obtaining charity status, which was made possible by the tireless efforts of our secretary, Liam Redmond. His dedication and hard work ensured that we met all the necessary requirements to become a registered charity. This achievement not only strengthens our ability to serve the LGBTQ+ community in Wicklow but also opens up new opportunities for growth and sustainability.

“An important goal for us has been to ensure that Wicklow Pride is a year-round presence and not just a once-a-year event. Through collaborations with local organisations, we’re working on expanding our advocacy efforts and providing more frequent opportunities for engagement and support.

“At Wicklow Pride, our mission is clear: to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for every member of our community. We’re constantly striving to make sure no one feels alone in their journey, and we’re excited about the progress we’ve made and the future we’re building together,” the Wicklow Pride Chair continued.

Speaking on how it felt to be nominated for the 2024 Person of the Year, Bracken commented: “I am truly overwhelmed and deeply grateful to everyone who voted for me as Person of the Year at the GALAS. This nomination is not just a recognition of my efforts; it represents the dedication and hard work of the entire Wicklow Pride committee. Every vote is a testament to our collective commitment to promoting inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Wicklow. I share this honour with each member of our team, whose passion and perseverance inspire me every day. Thank you for believing in us and our mission! I’m already a winner.”