Dundalk Pride focus on youth
COURTYARD TRANSFORMED
DUNDALK Pride, which marked its 8th year last week, has grown to be a major event in town’s calendar.
The festival was created to provide a regional version of the Pride events that take place among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities worldwide.
It is organized by volunteers from Dundalk Outcomers, an LGBT support service, with the courtyard at 8 Roden Place, transformed for the annual Pride Party on Saturday.
Despite a growing acceptance of inclusiveness by Irish society, many young LGBT people still experience difficulty in coming out to their family and friends in schools, colleges and the workplace.
The emphasis of this year’s Pride was to support these young people from throughout the North East and to address the problems which they face.
As always, the courtyard of Outcomers was transformed with craft and food stalls, a book corner, bunting and decorations, for the celebrations on Saturday afternoon which included live music from local singer/songwriter Sophie Coyle and Sofa Samba, holistic therapies and a Kids Pride with a magician.
The day ended with the Pride Party in the nearby Century Bar. Events earlier included a film screening in An Tain Arts Centre and an open mic session hosted by the Sea Legs Collective
Dundalk Outcomers are grateful to all those who supported this important family event which would not be possible without much needed sponsorship from local businesses and funding bodies