Pride 2023: Protest. Remember. Celebrate.

Welcome to Pride 2023, the month-long celebration that unites us in honouring and embracing our LGBTQ+ community. This year's theme, Protest, Remember, Celebrate, reflects the ongoing struggle for equality and the remarkable progress made over the years. Join us on this journey as we explore the significance of Pride in Ireland, delve into its historical roots, and provide valuable insights into being a supportive ally. Let's embark on this captivating exploration of understanding, solidarity, and love.

Protest: 

Pride finds its origins in Greenwich Village, New York, specifically at the historic Stonewall Inn in 1969. Faced with relentless police raids and harassment, the LGBTQ+ community courageously fought back, igniting a violent rebellion where coins, bottles, and stones were thrown at the police attempting to shut down the bar and arrest its patrons. To mark the 1 year anniversary of the riot, a large group marched from the Stonewall Inn to Central Park, chanting the iconic words, "Say it loud, gay is proud."

Despite significant progress, discrimination and inequity continue to persist in 2023, with over 70 countries still criminalizing same-sex relationships, and 11 countries even imposing the death penalty for such acts.

At our recruitment business, we understand the importance of finding not just the right role, but also the right culture and environment. A recent Deloitte survey revealed that while 79% of employers prioritize LGBTQ+ inclusion, 42% of LGBTQ+ employees have experienced non-inclusive behaviour at work. Less than half of the surveyed LGBTQ+ employees feel comfortable being out with the majority of their colleagues, and 19% choose not to reveal their gender identity or sexuality at all. 

If you are looking to create a more inclusive workplace, start from the top and work down. 83% of more than 3,000 LGBTQ+ people surveyed by Out Now would prefer to work for an employer that has visible LGBTQ+ leaders.

Remember

This year marks the monumental 50th anniversary of Pride in Ireland. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and reflect on the milestones that have shaped the path to equality.

1973: Trinity College witnessed the formation of the Sexual Liberation Movement (SLM), an LGBTQ+ group consisting of ten members. The group passionately discussed a range of topics, including feminism, racism, art, literature, and more. Their first march in 1974 advocated for Homosexual Law Reform outside the Department of Justice, paving the way for subsequent annual Pride weeks in the late '70s.

1983: Tragedy struck in Fairview Park when Declan Flynn became the target of a group called "The Rollers." This vigilante group, claiming to rid their area of homosexuals, brutally attacked and murdered Declan. In response, the community organised the largest Gay visibility march of its time. Hundreds of courageous individuals departed Liberty Hall, walking through the killer's neighbourhood en route to Fairview Park, demanding justice and visibility.

1993: A significant milestone was achieved as Ireland officially decriminalized homosexuality, marking a turning point in the fight for equality.

2010: After almost two decades, the Civil Partnership Act was passed in the Dail, granting LGBTQ+ couples more rights. However, it fell short of addressing crucial areas like guardianship, adoption, and access to children.

2015: Ireland made history by holding a Same-sex marriage referendum, with an overwhelming 62% of the country voting in favour. It became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage through a popular vote. The same year witnessed the passing of The Gender Recognition Act, allowing individuals to obtain a Gender Recognition Certificate, officially recognising their preferred gender by the state.

Celebrate

Pride is not only a protest; it's a vibrant celebration of love and acceptance. If you're not a member of the LGBTQ+ community but want to show your support, here are some valuable tips on being a good ally:

1. Understand the true meaning of Pride and the struggles it represents. Recognise that behind the colourful festivities lies a history of pain and resilience.
2. Acknowledge your privileges and empathize with the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
3. Stand up against hate. LGBTQ+ individuals often encounter microaggressions and even verbal and physical attacks due to their identity. When possible, step in and confront bigotry, even if it's not directly targeting you.
4. Remember that LGBTQ+ spaces are primarily for LGBTQ+ people. Avoid expecting adjustments that cater solely to your comfort. Let them express their true selves and embrace their uniqueness.
5. Being a good ally is a year-round commitment, not just during Pride month. Lead with empathy, openness, and continuous education.

As we conclude, we have explored the profound roots of Pride as a protest, recognizing the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. In Ireland, we reflected on the significant milestones that paved the way for equality and acceptance, while acknowledging that more work remains.

Pride is a relentless fight for the rights and dignity of every individual, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By embracing the true spirit of Pride and actively supporting the LGBTQ+ community, we can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Join us as we Protest against discrimination, Remember the struggles of the past, and Celebrate the love and diversity that make our LGBTQ+ community so vibrant. Together, we can create a world where everyone is free to be their authentic selves.