A s Dublin prepares to celebrate Pride 2026, this year’s theme, ‘One Story – Many Voices’, offers an important reflection on the strength, diversity and resilience of Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community. While Pride is often seen as a celebration, it is also an opportunity to recognise the work being done year-round by organisations, activists, writers, volunteers and community members who continue to advocate for equality, visibility and inclusion.
As I look at the incredible festival that has been brought together by the Dublin Pride team, I reflect on how the NXF relates to this theme.
One of the standout initiatives from the past year was the NXF Activist Academy 2025, which brought together emerging LGBTQ+ activists from across Ireland to develop leadership skills, build networks and explore the future of advocacy within the community. The programme created a space for participants to learn from experienced campaigners, journalists and community organisers while encouraging collaboration and fresh ideas. The Activist Academy reflected the NXF’s commitment to empowering the next generation of LGBTQ+ voices and ensuring that activism continues to evolve in inclusive and meaningful ways.
Another place where we hear many incredible stories is at The GALAS, Ireland’s LGBTQ+ awards that the NXF hosts in collaboration with GCN. Just as it did in 2025, this annual event will once again bring together members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies this year to celebrate achievements in activism, arts, media, business and community leadership.
The GALAS have become an important moment in Ireland’s LGBTQ+ calendar, recognising both individuals and organisations that work tirelessly to create positive change. Beyond the awards themselves, the event fosters a sense of visibility, reminding attendees of the strength that comes from community connection and shared celebration.
The success of The GALAS also demonstrates the continued importance of recognising the diverse talents and contributions that exist across Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community.
The collaboration between the NXF and GCN continues to be especially important. For decades, GCN has served as Ireland’s LGBTQ+ paper of record, documenting stories, milestones and challenges within the community. Through journalism, storytelling and digital media, GCN has created a platform where LGBTQ+ voices can be shared.
This partnership reflects the spirit of this year’s Dublin Pride theme perfectly. ‘One Story – Many Voices’ recognises that while the LGBTQ+ community shares a collective story of resilience and progress, every individual experience is unique. Pride belongs to everyone – from long-time activists who fought for equality decades ago to young people discovering their identities today.
Having been with the NXF for five years and Chair for three, I am also excited to announce that our new strategy will be published later this year. It sets out a vision for a more connected, empowered and sustainable LGBTQ+ movement in Ireland, focused on supporting activists, community groups and future generations through initiatives including GCN, the Activist Academy, Rainbow Gatherings and The GALAS. Rooted in the values of collectivity, solidarity and resistance, the strategy recognises the importance of preserving queer history while nurturing new voices and leadership. In the spirit of Dublin Pride 2026’s theme, the strategy reflects the belief that Ireland’s LGBTQ+ community is strengthened through diversity, shared action and ensuring every voice is seen, heard and celebrated.
As Dublin Pride 2026 approaches, this year’s theme encourages everyone to celebrate not only how far the LGBTQ+ community has come, but also the diversity within it. Have a fantastic Pride everyone, and congratulations to the brilliant team at Dublin Pride for bringing together a fantastic festival.