If you or anyone you know would like support and information from the Belong To LGBT Asylum Seekers and Refugees project, you can contact them by phone (01-670 6223) or by email (john@belongto.org)

This morning BeLonG To Youth Services launched their LGBT Asylum Seekers and Refugees Project.

BeLonG To created the Project to make life better for young asylum seekers and Refugees who may be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT).

BeLonG To has found that in several cases, young people in the refugee determination process come out after their initial arrival into Ireland, and therefore after their initial claim for asylum has been lodged.

There could be a number of reasons for this.

Think about it: largely, the countries where LGBT people are persecuted are countries where officials are corrupt and/or the police routinely violate the human rights of those they are meant to protect.

It may not be surprising, then, for someone who has lived their lives in that society to be fearful of disclosing their sexual orientation or gender identity to officials in Ireland.

Consider, too, the situation of separated children under the age of 18 years. The very fact of their young age may mean they haven’t come out to themselves, let alone disclosed this fact to anyone else.

I know I certainly didn’t seek support until my final year in school, and didn’t disclose to my peers until some time after that.

Significantly, if a person who applies for refugee status is perceived by the determining authority to have “changed their story”, this will almost certainly be viewed as undermining the applicant’s credibility.

A culture of disbelief permeates Ireland’s refugee status determination procedures at every level as it is.

Without proper training for the relevant officials, a person who discloses or comes out after the initial application for refugee status has been made will effectively be regarded as either simply a liar or someone who is introducing new information as a way to “enhance their claim”.

It is important to bear in mind, too, what happens when a separated child turns 18 while they await the outcome of their asylum claim.

A separated child is one who is in Ireland and is been placed in the care of the HSE as soon as they come to the attention of the authorities here. Usually nowadays the child resides with a foster family and has the support of a HSE social worker and/or project worker.

As soon as they turn 18, however, they leave the care of the HSE and are placed in one of the hostels housing adult asylum seekers.

In other words, they leave the constant safety and support of their adult carers. Although they will normally have an “after care plan” with the HSE, these young people are suddenly placed in a new environment where the possibility of hostile attitudes towards LGBT people is very real.

Even if a young LGBT person overcomes the hurdles of disclosure, coming out, establishing their credibility with the authorities, adjusting to their living arrangements – all while trying to carry on as normal an existence as possible, incluing pursuing studies and receiving any possible medical treatment they may need – they still must contend with simple ignorance and failure to correctly apply the law in their cases.

A refugee is someone who is outside of their own country, who fears persecution – in these cases on the grounds of being LGBT, or being perceived as such – and whose own country is unwilling or unable to protect them.

The recent report, Fleeing Homophobia, found that there have been a number of cases involving people who identify as gay which were refused notwithstanding the fact that homosexuality is criminalised in their countries of origins. It also found inconsistencies where some applicants from a particular country – e.g. Kenya – were declared to be refugees whereas others were refused.

The same report found that Ireland often refuses asylum on the basis that if the applicant is “discreet” in his or her country of origin no persecution will arise.

This is despite the fact that a leading ruling regarding LGBT asylum seekers states clearly what approach is required in cases involving LGBT asylum seekers. In short, a person cannot be expected to conceal their sexual or gender identity in order to avoid persecution.

The court stated:

When an applicant applies for asylum on the ground of a well-founded fear of persecution because he is gay, the tribunal must first ask itself whether it is satisfied on the evidence that he is gay, or that he would be treated as gay by potential persecutors in his country of nationality.

If so, the tribunal must then ask itself whether it is satisfied on the available evidence that gay people who lived openly would be liable to persecution in the applicant’s country of nationality.

If so, the tribunal must go on to consider what the individual applicant would do if he were returned to that country.

If the applicant would in fact live openly and thereby be exposed to a real risk of persecution, then he has a well-founded fear of persecution – even if he could avoid the risk by living “discreetly”.

If, on the other hand, the tribunal concludes that the applicant would in fact live discreetly and so avoid persecution, it must go on to ask itself why he would do so.

If the tribunal concludes that the applicant would choose to live discreetly simply because that was how he himself would wish to live, or because of social pressures, e g, not wanting to distress his parents or embarrass his friends, then his application should be rejected. Social pressures of that kind do not amount to persecution and the Convention does not offer protection against them. Such a person has no well-founded fear of persecution because, for reasons that have nothing to do with any fear of persecution, he himself chooses to adopt a way of life which means that he is not in fact liable to be persecuted because he is gay.

If, on the other hand, the tribunal concludes that a material reason for the applicant living discreetly on his return would be a fear of the persecution which would follow if he were to live openly as a gay man, then, other things being equal, his application should be accepted. Such a person has a well-founded fear of persecution. To reject his application on the ground that he could avoid the persecution by living discreetly would be to defeat the very right which the Convention exists to protect – his right to live freely and openly as a gay man without fear of persecution. By admitting him to asylum and allowing him to live freely and openly as a gay man without fear of persecution, the receiving state gives effect to that right by affording the applicant a surrogate for the protection from persecution which his country of nationality should have afforded him.

The Secretary of State should, of course, apply the same approach when considering applications of this type. Although I have, for the most part, concentrated on the position of gay men, the Secretary of State and tribunals should approach applications concerning lesbian women in the same way.

(The man who wrote this seminal judgement, Lord Rodger of Earlsferry, sadly passed away almost exactly one year later, on 26th June 2011, following a brief illness. His same principles were later applied, separately, to a case relating to religious belief.)

The BeLonG To Project aims to develop best practice for inclusion of LGBT asylum seekers and refugees in those statutory and voluntary services which work with either asylum seekers and refugees or LGBT communities, and which have a focus on youth and young adults.

BeLonG To will offer training and capacity building to this end. The organisation will also provide direct support to LGBT asylum seeking and refugee young people aged 14-30 years through its Project Youth Worker, John Duffy.

The Project draws on advice and feedback from key partners in the statutory and NGO sectors. Training Workshops will soon be launched, and in December 2012 there will be a seminar and report published.  The Project will be completed in January 2013.

The LGBT Asylum Seekers and Refugees Project is co-financed by the European Commission under the European Refugee Fund (ERF) and is supported by the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration in the Department of Justice and Equality, by Pobal and by the HSE.

Speakers at this morning’s launch included:

• Sophie Magennis, Head of Office, UNHCR Ireland
• Sue Conlon, CEO, Irish Refugee Council
• Dr. Nazih Eldin, Director, HSE Health Promotion Office, Dublin North East
• Patricia Brazil, Barrister and the Averill Deverill Lecturer in Law at TCD / National Expert for Ireland to the European Fleeing Homophobia Project

If you or anyone you know would like support and information from the Belong To LGBT Asylum Seekers and Refugees project, you can contact them by phone (01-670 6223) or by email (john@belongto.org)

For any further information, please contact the Project Coordinator, Marissa Ryan.

Related posts:

1. BeLonG To’s example leads first ever UN meeting on homophobic bullying
2. BeLonG To Gay Prom 2011
3. You Belong Too

• Here’s another article from one of our new writers, Niamh Ní Mhaoileoin. Happy New Year!

2011 has been celebrated as a great year for the LGBT community. Of course, as long as severe inequality persists, it’s difficult to wholeheartedly agree that it was a great year. We’ve seen setbacks for marriage equality in Ireland, homosexuality still criminal in 76 countries around the world, lesbians tortured in anti-gay clinics in Ecuador, the LGBT community drastically suppressed in Russia, and gay teenagers everywhere still being tormented by homophobic bullying.

All the same, 2011 has certainly upheld that crucial message; that it gets better. So, grab a cup o’ kindness and we’ll run through some of the achievements of the LGBT movement in 2011.

1. Civil Partnership

Ireland rang in the New Year with the Civil Partnership Act, which came into effect on 1st January 2011, granting considerably enhanced rights to co-habiting partners, including gay couples. On 4th April, Hugh Walsh and Barry Dignam entered into the first publicly celebrated partnership under the Act.

On 5th March, the Taoiseach outlined the government’s intentions for a constitutional convention, including a provision for discussing marriage for same-sex couples. While the parameters of the convention remain unclear, the mention of marriage equality in the Programme for Government shows that gay rights have become something of a legislative priority. As Iarnród Éireann would put it, “We’re not there yet… but we’re getting there”.

2. LGBT Representatives in the Oireachtas

The number of openly gay Oireachtas members has quadrupled in 2011. In February, Dominic Hannigan and John Lyons of the Labour Party became the first openly gay TDs in the history of the State. David Norris, despite the upsets in his presidential campaign, held the Trinity seat he’s been fighting from for the last 24 years.

Finally, in a real triumph for the LGBT community, for women, for men, for children, for Human Rights, for Ireland, for the world, the solar system and the universe… the visionary Dr Katherine Zappone was appointed to the Senate at the request of the Táiniste.

3. Born this Way

Like it or not, Gaga’s anthem, released on 23rd May, was the soundtrack of gay 2011.

Gaga is a leader in a powerful popular campaign for equality that’s taking place on people’s TVs and iPods, and in their tweets, hearts and minds.

4. Repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’

On 20th September, the United States finally repealed the insidious, twenty-year old ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, which prevented LGBT people from serving openly in the military. At last, the army that professes to fight for freedom around the world afforded this most basic freedom to its own soldiers.

Last month the full adorable implications of the change were embodied by the ‘first kiss on land’ between Petty Officer 2nd Class Marissa Gaeta and Petty Officer 3rd Class Citalic Snell.

5. Hillary Clinton’s Speech

In the months since the repeal of DADT, the Obama administration has dramatically altered its foreign policy relating to gay rights. This shift culminated in Hillary Clinton’s ground breaking speech in Geneva on December 6th, urging the world’s leaders to afford LGBT people “the full measure of liberty, the full experience of dignity, and the full benefits of humanity.”

6. President Higgins

On 29th October, the election of Michael D. Higgins as the 9th President of Ireland was another victory for progressive, tolerant Ireland.

This feminist, human rights activist and LGBT ally is a true successor to the Marys Robinson and McAleese in the struggle to dismantle “the noxious apparatus of homophobia”.

7. International leaders support marriage equality

Around the world, the cause of Marriage Equality has been gaining momentum. In the UK, David Cameron has pledged that his government is now committed to discussing “how, not if” to implement full civil marriage for LGBT couples, and to have the legislation in place within the lifetime of the current parliament. The ruling Australian Labour Party also adjusted its platform to support full marriage equality.

In the USA, President Obama at last took a stronger stance on gay marriage, and voicing his support for the ‘Respect for Marriage Act’, which will invalidate DOMA. While many of the prospective Republican candidates for 2012 are virulently anti-gay, with Obama onside we’re promised a fair fight. Well, as fair as a fight can be when one side is clearly right.

8. Marriage equality in New York

On June 24th, just in time for a particularly joyful Pride, New York passed its Marriage Equality Act, becoming most populous state yet to legalise full gay marriage.

The first wedding in Manhattan was a real tearjerker, taking place between Phyllis Siegel, 77, and Connie Kopelov, 85.

9. Progress on homophobic bullying

Horrifying stories of gay bullying and suicide continued to emerge this year, most memorably that of 14-year old Jamey Rodemeyer, an out 14-year old activist and blogger. However, it seems that although change comes dropping slow, change does come.

In December, Ireland’s own Belong To were held up as role models at a UN conference in Rio, dedicated specifically tackling homophobic bullying as human rights abuse.

10. The UN’s first resolution on LGBT rights

This year the UN Human Rights Council passed a specific resolution supporting LGBT rights for the first time in its history. The resolution expresses “grave concern at acts of violence and discrimination, in all regions of the world, committed against individuals because of their sexual orientation and gender identity.”

While the resolution has no binding effect, it is a milestone in that it reflects an international shift in values. Its opponents are concerned that the Resolution will force countries to legalise homosexuality and recognise marriage equality. Here’s hoping that they’re right.

Have we missed anything important? Add your 2011 milestones in the comments!

Related posts:

1. BeLonG To’s example leads first ever UN meeting on homophobic bullying
2. LGBT Noise – March for Marriage 2011
3. I, like, like that you like this: Your fave Facebook links of 2011

• This just in from the absolute heroes that are the Belong To crew:

Over the course of the last week, BeLonG To Youth Services participated in the first ever UN level consultation on tackling homophobic bullying worldwide.

The event culminated in the drafting of ‘The Rio Statement‘, which was issued by the representatives of twenty five LGBTQ organisations present at the conference. Simultaneously, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon issued a ground breaking statement calling on governments globally to combat homophobic bullying.

Speaking on his return from the Rio meeting, Michael Barron, Executive Director at BeLonG To Youth Services said:

The Rio Statement on Homophobic Bullying and Education for All represents very important progress in our battle to end homophobic and transphobic bullying against LGBT young people throughout the world. As UN General Secretary Ban Ki-moon states, this bullying represents a ‘grave violation of human rights’ and it is vital that all countries tackle this issue.

BeLonG To’s work to end homophobic bullying in Ireland was identified as best practice at the Rio meeting, and will be included in a United Nations toolkit which will be made available to governments and civil society organisations around the world who work to end what former President Mc Aleese referred to as ‘the noxious apparatus of homophobia‘. This follows from the recent endorsement of our work in this area from Thomas Hammarberg, Commissioner for Human Rights at the Council of Europe.

Michael continued:

It was a great privilege to represent BeLonG To and Ireland at this first global UN consultation on homophobic bullying. What is clear is that we are making very good progress in this area in Ireland. In particular I would like to commend the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, the Department of Education, and the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention for their progressive work in recent years.

But this is no time to be complacent. Homophobic bullying is an issue of huge urgency and continues to have devastating effects, including school drop-out, drug use and suicide, on young people here in Ireland.

In light of these important actions from the UN, we urge the government to reprioritise action to support LGBT young people. No young person should have their human rights and safety violated because of who they are.

• Belong To: web / fb / twitter / youtube

Related posts:

1. Homophobic bullying in schools
2. You Belong Too
3. Belong To launches LGBT refugee & asylum seeker project

As some of us recover from festive celebrations, we can ease through this week with plenty in the way of gentle socialising, and nothing too taxing. Praise be!

Monday, 12th December

Dublin

• TENI Family Support Group. For further details contact vanessa@teni.ie

Tuesday, 13th December

Dublin

• Volunteering with the Irish Feminist Network at The Duke, off Grafton Street. 7:30pm.

• Wet & Wild Sports Club on ice! At IMMA, 6:30pm.

Kerry

• Kerry LGBT Youth Project, for young people aged 15-18 years. Meets at 7pm. Contact (066) 712 1674 for info.

Wednesday, 14th December

Dublin

• Running Amach: Indoor Soccer. Places are limited; click the link for details.

• IndividualiTy, a social group for transgender young people and those questioning their gender identity. Meets at 5:30pm. Contact info@belongto.org or (01) 6706223.

• BeLonG To Over 18s Group, for LGBT young people aged 18 – 23 from Dublin and surrounding areas. Meets at 7:30pm. Contact info@belongto.org or (01) 6706223.

Mayo

• Shenanigans: ‘Tost’ Christmas Party at Le Chéile Family Resource Centre, Castlebar, 7pm.

Tipperary

• OUT Tipp, an LGBT support group for young people. Meets at 7pm. Contact outipp@gmail.com or 087 9100727 for info.

Thursday, 15th December

Cavan

• AIM LGBT Youth Group meets at 4pm. Contact youth@outcomers.org or 086 1625030.

Cork

• Unite* a confidential Gay, Bisexual and Transgender youth group (24 years and under). Meets at 6pm. Contact info@gayyouthcork.com or (021) 4278470.

Dublin

• The Ladybirds, a group for young lesbian, bi and trans* women (aged 14-23 years). Meets at 6pm. Contact info@belongto.org or (01) 6706223.

• Glória celebrate Christmas at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin. 8pm.

• Running Amach: Coffee shop hang out at Accents Lounge. 9pm.

• Prhomo at Dragon – One year anniversary! Free before 10pm.

Galway

• Shenanigans: Over the Edge Reading. 6:30pm at Galway City Library.

Limerick

• My Diversity, for young persons aged between 14 and 25 years. Meets at 7pm. Contact mylgbrss@gmail.com or 085 2850107 / (061) 310101 for info.

Louth

• AIM Young Adults Group, an informal support for LGBT young people aged 18-25 years old in the North East. Meets at 8pm. Contact youth@outcomers.org or 086 1625030 for info.

Related posts:

1. BLT Sandwich (5-8 Dec)
2. BLT Sandwich (2-4 Dec)
3. BLT Sandwich (7-10 Nov)

• This just in from another of our new writers, roving reporter, Soapie:

Friday 18th November marked the start of Pink Training, the gayest weekend on the calendar (except Pride, of course!).

Organised by Siobhán McGuire, the LGBT Rights Officer for USI, and held in NUIG, the training was a 3 day affair, packed with intriguing workshops and fabulous socials.

A so called ‘Pink Training Virgin’, I couldn’t wait to get my cherry popped.

Friday

The shenanigans started right once we’d stepped on the bus. A DITer, I was among the best of the best, half of the delegates had been to Training before, some even 3 or 4 times. Sat behind a couple of girls in their 1st year in college, I set about getting to know the new faces. It wasn’t long before we were singing to ABBA and playing Celebrity Heads together like long lost cousins – before we knew it were in Galway!

Having been introduced to our Sleepzone Hostel and no-drinking-in-rooms policy, it was time to register to collect our goodie bags and wrist bands. A tidy navy blue kitbag, it contained the programme of proceedings, an LGBT Helpine card, Gay Prom promo flyer, USI pen, and of course the all important BASEBALL SHIRT. (Can you tell I’ve always wanted one?) Oh, and the ‘free-in’ wristband of course, which came in neon pink – perfect for Saturday’s UV Party!

With bunk-beds bagsied and matching blue logo-ed society t-shirts donned, it was time to head on down to the beauuuutiful NUI Galway. Dotted with grand old buildings and clustered with innovative new ones, it was a treat to wander our way down to the Concourse for the Official Opening. And what an opening! Heart felt speeches were given by Siobhán McGuire and Gary Redmond, USI President – intermitted by DIT’s passionate drumming scores. Then after the speeches had received a thorough standing ovation, we played a few rounds of the infamous USI Stand Up Sit Down Game before a packed Table Quiz and a night out on the lash in Galway’s Dignity Nightclub. Now, what happens in Dignity stays in Dignity.

Saturday

Saturday morning, bright eyed and bushy tailed from Hostel orange juice – ya gotta love hostel orange juice – the clan headed back down to the NUIG Concourse for Michael Barron’s keynote speech. A remarkable man, he told the story of how and why he set up Belong To, originally a response to homelessness, creating a safe place for young LGBT people to be themselves and confront their difficulties. Closing his speech, he left us with BeLonGTo’s campaign video Stand Up! Well worth a watch if you haven’t seen it already.

Coming out workshops quite aptly followed Michael’s speech, covering how and if to come out yourself, and then how to support someone who’s coming out. There was also a Trans Closed Space with Cat McIlroy, open only to those identifying as trans to create a safe space for conversation. Other workshops that were covered that day included Implementing Human Rights Standards, LGBT Sexual Health, Revolting Homosexuals with Tonie Walsh, Heteronormativity, Bi Awareness and the unforgettable Billie’s Sexual Empowerment.

With brains stuffed with knowledge we headed back to the hostel to prepare for another night painting the town pink in… Dignity Nightclub. Prepping on a game of Taboo and some fanta with vodka from a tea cup, we headed on out. Once again, what happens in Dignity stays in Dignity – bar “I shifted the titty-wank guy!” (No, not me!)

Sunday

The final day of training, our poor baseball-tee clad gays were getting a bit sleep and emotional, no more Pink Training for another whole YEAR! But nevertheless, we made the very best of our last day. With open spaces for Bis, Trans, Lesbians, Gays and Allies, everybody was catered for.

Then, once we’d gotten everything off our chests, it was time for the Closing Speech. Presented by Siobhán, it marked the end to a brilliant weekend, definitely one to be remembered for some time – if not until next year.

Thanks Siobhán!

DIT, DIT, DIT!!!

Related posts:

1. Belong2 Training Days
2. The Pink List 2011
3. BLT Sandwich (18-20 Nov)

This is one busy weekend around Ireland, including the Gay Prom, festive highlights, the return of Bitches Be Crazy, regular youth group meetings, and the start of 16 Days. Clear the diaries, folks!

Friday, 25th November

Nationwide

• International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: Start of International 16 Days Action (until 10th December). In Ireland, Women’s Aid are running their 16 Days campaign – Events around Ireland are listed at the
  Women’s Aid 16 Days blog

Cork

• Participants are needed for the Ms Gay Cork contest this Sunday! Please come & support. Proceeds go to Linc and Marriage Equality. web / facebook / facebook event

Dublin

• Art for Equality in aid of Marriage Equality. 14/15 St Stephen’s Green. Exhibition of works for auction runs until 6:30pm on Sat; Auction takes place at 6:30pm on Sat.

• Bitches Be Crazy. 8pm. Fiver before 9:30pm, tenner after. BYOB. Click “I’m attending” for details.

• BeLonG To Gay Prom at the Mansion House. Doors 8pm. Excitement!

 

• Plus! The Gay Prom After-Party will take place in Copper Alley (behind the Front Lounge). Admission is FREE with your Gay Prom ticket – (or if your dressed up to the 9s). Doors 1am. The Gay Prom After-Party will be rocking ‘til the wee small hours!

• The Electric Disco in aid of Barnardos at Tripod, Dublin, 10pm. €10 before 11pm and €15 after. Running Amach info. 2FM info.

Galway

• The shOUT! peeps are looking for people interested in becoming volunteer youth leaders within the shOUT! project. Get in touch if interested! Deadline is 26th November. Phone: 087 7738529. Email: shout@youthworkgalway.ie. shOUT! is a partnership of Youth Work Ireland, Galway with the support of BeLonG To.

Wicklow

• Civil Partnership & Co-Habiting: seminar on rights and obligations. Hunters Hotel, Wicklow. Starts 7:30pm. Info at 086 8074999.

Saturday, 26th November

Donegal

• Breakout LGBT youth group. 2pm to 4pm. Contact lgbt@donegalyouthservice.ie or 085 7411 607.

Dublin

• Dublin Front Runners at the Phoenix Park from 10am. More information: dublinfrontrunners@gmail.com

• Dr Sketchy’s B&W Christmas, 3pm at Le Cirk.

• Running Amach – Circle dance afternoon at Outhouse. 4pm.

• Art for Equality in aid of Marriage Equality. 14/15 St Stephen’s Green. Auction at 6:30pm.

• Strand Street Cabaret dinner & show. 8pm.

• Klub Diva Chrimbo Shindig at The Turk’s Head. Doors 9:30pm.

• Princess Ri-Ri WAR at Andrew’s Lane Theatre. “My vagina is just as hungry as Rihanna’s.” It’s a Rihanna special. Doors 10pm.

Dundalk

• AIM Youth Group. 1pm to 3pm. Contact youth@outcomers.org or 086 162 5030.

Galway

• Ceramics workshop at shOUT! Phone: 087 7738529. Email: shout@youthworkgalway.ie

• Deadline for expressions of interest for volunteer youth leaders with shOUT!. Get in touch if interested!

• Shenanigans meet for coffee. 3pm.

• Shenanigans at Wildes Bar. 9pm.

• The Full Moon Thai Party at Dignity.

Limerick

• My LGBT Young Adults Group (18-25 years). 12noon to 2pm. Contact mylgbrss@gmail.com or (061) 310 101 / 085 285 0107.

• Rainbow Teens (14-17 years). 12noon to 2pm. Contact mylgbrss@gmail.com or (061) 310 101 / 085 285 0107.

Sunday, 27th November

Cork

• Ms Gay Cork at Chambers. Doors 9pm. Proceeds to Linc & Marriage Equality.

Dublin

• Running Amach at the Science Gallery. 12 noon.

• Dublin International Gay Social Group (D.I.G.S.) monthly Sunday meetup. 1pm.

• BeLonG To Sundays. 3pm to 6pm. Contact info@belongto.org or (01) 670 6223.

• Running Amach board games afternoon. 3pm in Temple Bar.

• Running Amach film meet up at the IFI (My Week With Marilyn). 4pm.

Waterford

• Chill Out youth group. 2pm to 4pm. Contact chillout@wstcys.ie or 086 858 9865.

Related posts:

1. BLT Sandwich (4-6 Nov)
2. BLT Sandwich (18-20 Nov)
3. BLT Sandwich (12-15 Dec)

Dust off your ruby red slippers and tiaras for Ireland’s Official Gay Prom 2011!

This Friday, 25th November, don your glad rags and join 300 members of Ireland’s LGBT community for the annual Gay Prom which takes place in the luxurious surroundings of the Mansion House Dublin. Guests can expect a night of glitz and glamour, old-school prom style.

A special night in every gay boy and girl’s calendar, guests will enjoy live entertainment, an array of special guest performance, delicious food and dancing until the wee hours.

The night kicks off at 8.00pm, tickets are priced at €40, and all proceeds go to BeLonG To supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender young people in Ireland. Tickets are available from belongto.org, the Project Arts Centre, or by calling (01) 881 9613.

Commenting on the importance of an event like the Gay Prom, Michael Barron, Executive Director of BeLonG To, said:

“BeLonG To’s Gay Prom is a celebration and coming out party for people of all ages. It’s a fabulous party, but not only that – it’s about our community supporting its young people to come out safely and to have all the same opportunities as other young people.

“Because of bullying and exclusion school can be a really tough place for LGBT young people. Traditional school Debs can be difficult for them, with many not going and still more not being able to bring a same-sex partner. Gay Prom is about addressing this so that gay young people know that they are valued and have the same rights as everyone else.”

BeLonG To Youth Services is the national youth organisation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) young people in Ireland. BeLonG To was established in 2003 and envisions a future in which LGBT young people are safe and supported in their families, schools and communities, and all young people are equally cared for, valued, and respected.

BeLonG To provides direct youth services to LGBT young people in Dublin and supports LGBT youth groups all around Ireland. They engage in national policy, training and awareness programs, including the Stand Up! Don’t Stand for Homophobic Bullying Campaign.

Where: The Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2

When: 25th November 2011 at 8pm

Admission: Tickets €40.00 per person

Strictly over 18s (ID required).

• BeLonG To: website / facebook / twitter / youtube

Related posts:

1. BeLonG To Gay Prom 2011
2. Belong2 Training Days
3. BLT Sandwich (25-27 Nov)

The weekend was fairly jam-packed full of events, and there’s plenty going on during the coming week.

For some of the best bits, keep readin’.

(If anything’s missing, let me know in a comment or email!)

Monday, 7th November

Nationwide

• The online LGBT Traveller Health Survey continues until the 10th. Spread the word!

Cork

• It’s the final day for voting in the Cork Rebel Awards 2011.

 

• OutLook continues, as part of the Cork Film Festival

Dublin

• A Bear, a Bull, and a Chicken comedy night at Panti Bar. From 9pm. Free.

Dundalk

• Dundalk Outcomers women’s night. 8:30pm until 10:30pm. Contact Bernardine on (042) 9329816.

Galway

• LGBT Diversity Midlands Regional Seminar – Active Ageing for All: Older and LGBT at Menlo Park Hotel, Galway. Starts at 10am.

Tuesday, 8th November

Cavan

• LGBTinC meeting in Cavan Town. 7:30pm until 9.30pm. Email info@lgbtinc.org or call/text 086 249 1821 for more details.

Dublin

• Let’s Talk About Sex with Running Amach (location TBC). An open, honest discussion about sexual intimacy, safer sex and sexual pleasure. From 7pm.

Wednesday, 9th November

Cork

• Phoenix Youth Group at LinC (15-23s). 6pm until 9pm. Contact info@linc.ie or (021) 4808600 for more info or to speak with a Youth Worker before joining.

Dublin

• BeLonG To IndividualiTy. 5:30pm until 7:30pm. Contact info@belongto.org or (01) 6706223 for more info.

 

• Dublin Front Runners in the Phoenix Park. Meet at 7:30pm. More information: dublinfrontrunners@gmail.com

Kilkenny

• LGBT Diversity Seminar: “Looking to the Future: Older and LGBT” at Langton’s Hotel, Kilkenny. From 10am. Contact berni@lgbtdiversity.com for details

Thursday, 10th November

Nationwide

• Final day of the LGBT Traveller Health Survey

Kerry

• Ciarrai Amach-Kerry LGBT Project : “Equality Achieved?” conference at Ballyroe Heights Hotel. From 9:30am. Booking form here.

Voilà!

Related posts:

1. BLT Sandwich (4-6 Nov)
2. BLT Sandwich (18-20 Nov)
3. BLT Sandwich (12-15 Dec)

Attention bisexuals, leslies and transfolk! There’s plenty a-happening to keep you occupied this weekend, so I thought, “What better than to present all of that information in one handy post?” (Plus, I decided to call it a BLT Sandwich. And I’m not even sorry.)

So, here it is. (If I’ve left anything out, pop it in a comment or email!)

Friday, 4th November

Dublin

• Surprise WAR at Andrews Lane Theatre. Doors 10pm. Follow the link to find out how to get in for free or for cheap. Admission is “€8 if you are a schmuck.”

• Bunny’s Hutch at PantiBar. Starts 10pm. Free.

Dundalk

• “Queer Conversation”: Dundalk Outcomers mixed night. From 8:30pm until 10:30pm.

Galway

• GOSSIP monthly meeting. From 7:30pm until 9:30pm.

Saturday, 5th November

Cork

• Claiming Our Future Ideas: “An Economy for Society”, Millennium Hall, Cork City Hall. Registration 10am. Enquiries to richie@claimingourfuture.ie. More info here.)

Donegal

• Breakout LGBT youth group. 2pm to 4pm. Contact lgbt@donegalyouthservice.ie or 085 7411 607.

Dublin

• Parent and children group at Outhouse. From 3pm to 5pm. All parents and their children welcome. Contact Fidelma: (01) 865 0093 or fidelma@outhouse.ie

 

• The Big Deal at Project Arts Theatre and panel discussion, “We are family”, with TENI.

 

• In4Squash/OutInIreland Winter Squash Tournament at West Wood Club, Leopardstown, Dublin 18. 10:30am until 5:30pm.

 

• Dublin International Gay Social Group (D.I.G.S.) evening in Havana at 7:30pm.

 

• Wet and Wild Sports Club : Karting at Kylemore Karting. Starts at 6pm.

 

• Dublin Front Runners at the Phoenix Park from 10am. More information: dublinfrontrunners@gmail.com

 

• Strand Street Cabaret at Foam Café. Doors 8pm, Show 9.30, €15 for tapas, dessert & a glass of wine.

 

• The Panti Show at PantiBar from 10pm.

 

• Mother’s Mix at Copper Alley. Doors 11pm. €5 in before 11:30pm.

Dundalk

• AIM Youth Group. 1pm to 3pm. Contact youth@outcomers.org or 086 162 5030.

Galway

• TENI Transgender Awareness Workshop at shOUT!. 4pm to 6pm. Email shout@youthworkgalway.ie

Limerick

• My LGBT Young Adults Group (18-25 years). 12noon to 2pm. Contact mylgbrss@gmail.com or (061) 310 101 / 085 285 0107.

 

• Rainbow Teens (14-17 years). 12noon to 2pm. Contact mylgbrss@gmail.com or (061) 310 101 / 085 285 0107.

Sunday, 6th November

Cork

• OutLook Film Festival web / fb / web

Dublin

• BeLonG To Sundays. 3pm to 6pm. Contact info@belongto.org or (01) 670 6223.

Waterford

• Chill Out youth group. 2pm to 4pm. Contact chillout@wstcys.ie or 086 858 9865.

Related posts:

1. BLT Sandwich (7-10 Nov)
2. BLT Sandwich (18-20 Nov)
3. BLT Sandwich (2-4 Dec)

It’s that time of year again!

The BeLonG To Gay Prom 2011 takes place on 25th November next in the Mansion House.

Where: The Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2

When: 25th November 2011 at 8pm

Admission: €40.00 per person (ticket only)

Get your tickets here or by phone (01-881 9613). More info here and here!

Our friends in BeLonG To say:

The Gay Prom 2011: A Gay Prom For All Ages From 18 to Infinity!

This is your chance to have the debs you always wanted while supporting this amazing organisation.

Featuring special guest performers, fabulous food and dancing until very late, together with the crowning of The Gay Prom King and Queen.

Dress to Impress

Doors 8pm. Dancing Debutantes til late…

BeLonG To works to create an Ireland where all young people grow up knowing that being gay is ok. A society which respects and values all young people equally, one where LGBT young people’s identities are celebrated, and one where no young person is ever told that they have to change who they are.

This is BeLonG To Youth Services’ Annual Fundraising Ball to Support lesbian, Gay Bisexual & Transgender Young People in Ireland (Charity No. 16534).

For more information visit about BeLongTo visit their website.

Over 18′s only (ID Required), Management reserve the right of admission, strictly no exchange or refunds on tickets.

• BeLonG To: website / facebook / twitter / youtube

Related posts:

1. It’s time to get Gay Prom fabulous
2. BeLonG To’s example leads first ever UN meeting on homophobic bullying
3. You Belong Too

Where?

Copper Alley Nightclub, just off Dame St behind the Front Lounge.

When?

Saturday, 29th October, 8pm–11pm.

Fancy Dress, or Dress Fancy – The theme is Hallowe’en – so get creative! Tricks & treats provided!

DJ Paul Ryder playing the best in pop/charts & commercial dance.

€3 Juice cocktails
€1.50 Coke/7up/orange

ID aims to provide an alternative social experience for those LGBT youths who are either too young to attend licensed clubs, or don’t want to. ID is run in support of BeLonG To Youth Services.

This is an alcohol free event.

More details on Facebook!

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2. Lick Dublin’s Newest Lesbian Night Kicks Off 8th October
3. Belong2 Training Days

BeLonG To Youth Services invites you to attend a one day training session on the subject of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender young people.

Topics Covered Will Include:
 

• LGBT terminology and issues
• Current research on Irish LGBT young people
• How to support young people coming out
• Challenging homophobic language and bullying
• How to make your school or youth service safe for LGBT young people (what kind of policies and procedures should be in place? How can you make the physical environment and the programmes taught inclusive of LGBT young people?)

• belongto.org

Related posts:

1. BeLonG To Gay Prom 2011
2. It’s time to get Gay Prom fabulous
3. Pink Training 2011

Yes, it’s Charlene McKenna, Irish actor of stage and screen. You may recognise her from such productions as Breakfast on Pluto, Pure Mule, Single Handed, Whistleblower and of course Raw. On stage, she has appeared in productions of Romeo and Juliet, A Slice of Saturday Night, The Little Shop of Horrors and Dancing at Lughnasa.

McKenna is currently starring in an Irish film, Jump!, based on a play of the same name by Lisa McGee.

She’s only wee, having been born in 1984, and hails from Glaslough. In 2009, she won the Best Actress IFTA for her role in Raw. In the same year she won the award for Outstanding Actress in a Mini-Series for her role in Whistleblower, a dramatisation of events relating to the butcher Michael Neary and horrific practices at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda.

And speaking of Raw – McKenna and her fellow cast members from the show, made the following excellent video for BeLonG To in support of this year’s Stand Up! LGBT Awareness Week.

(Anyone else notice that Ms McKenna gets the longest bit of the video? And that Glaslough is near Castle Leslie? …Just sayin’.)

The BeLonG To Stand Up! LGBT Awarness Week takes place from 4th to 15th April 2011. Visit BeLonG To for more details:
- website
- facebook (also)
- twitter
- youtube

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Personally, I think Panti should be our Grand Marshall as she’s is every other day of the year, but then again, maybe it should be someone new. There are so many work-horses out there in the community that it would be great to see someone like the wonderful Michael Barron of BeLonG To, or Mick Quinlan of the Gay Men’s Health Project and other charities, or maybe Brian Finnegan of GCN. All of them work away in the background and we take their work for granted.

According to Oisin Reilly of Dublin Pride

We would strive to ensure that someone new is recognised, but if someone has been on the scene for years and is the people’s choice, then he or she should be the Grand Marshall.

I suppose that Dominic Hannigan and John Lyons, the two out gay Labour TDs would be a choice. Personally, I haven’t seen them do anything for the community, so I wouldn’t be voting for them. But then, it’s up to you.

How about Glenn Cunningham and Adriano Vilar, the first couple to be Civilly Partnerfied in Ireland? They’d be a lovely representation of the community.

But they are all men. What about Katherine Zappone and Ann Louise Gilligan? They were Grand Marshalls a few years ago, but the Supreme Court hearing of their fight for their marriage to be recognised, is coming up so this could be some good publicity. And they are the most wonderful ambassadors.

Then there is Suzie Byrne, who was instrumental in the 1993 right to have homosexuality decriminalised and is busy keeping us up to date politically (and winning awards) on her blog, Maman Poulet.

I suppose it could also be an organisation, like GLEN or the NLGF or BeLonG To or any number of others. Hey! It could be Gaelick!

Get voting here.

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1. Dublin Pride 2011 Events Listings
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The first two books have been successful Swedish films and the third is on its way. If you can’t wait for it to open, here’s a chance to catch a sneak peek.

The folk at BeLonG To have managed to, legally, get their hands on a copy of the film and are screening it before it opens on these shores.

Warner Brothers are allowing the film to be shown as part of Movies@Dundrum in the Dundrum Town Centre, with all proceeds going to the youth group. Cool eh?

It’s on Tuesday, 23rd November at7pm. Tickets are €20 from www.belongto.org, for which you will get an exclusive goodie bag, and the chance to win a weekend of pampering.

Not only that but you can ruin the ending of the film for everyone you know. Wonderful stuff! Sign me in.

To get tickets click here

For more info on BeLonG To, click here

Related posts:

1. BeLonG To Gay Prom 2011
2. You Belong Too
3. *Gaelick Exclusive* The Trouble Is are playing the Pride Night Party

Gay Prom was held in the Radisson Blu hotel in Dublin on the October bank holiday weekend. The event was attended by people of all age groups, and from all over the country. This mix of people contributed hugely to the fantastic atmosphere that abounded for the whole night.

I had 3 friends over to my house to get ready beforehand…4 girls running around in tuxes, looking for ties or bow ties, losing them, then tying them “wrong” was the only activity for several minutes, before everyone finally got their jackets on and we went outside to hail a taxi. The taxi driver was a bit of an ass though, he kept making stupid jokes, asking if we were dressed up as waiters for the night, and as we got out of the car, he felt it necessary to remind us to not forget to use the “right” bathroom.

Upon arriving in the hotel, we were greeted by some of the staff of BeLonG To, who showed us to our table… but not before letting us stop to get pictures taken by Peter Fingleton, who was the photographer for the night. When we sat down in the dining area, the excitement among the attendees was palpable, and the room just looked so gorgeous.

After a speech from the director of BeLonG To, Michael Barron, Senator David Norris took to the stage and talked about what a monumental night it was for the young LGBT people of Ireland, and spoke a little bit about the Seanad debates on Civil Partnership. He received a standing ovation from the whole room as soon as he finished talking, and then Katherine Lynch took to the stage.

She opened up by welcoming all the “Faggots” to Prom. I may be in a minority here, but I really didn’t find that funny. At any other gay event, maybe, whatever (I’m undecided) but I just can’t shake that feeling that at an event to raise funds for BeLonG To, and thereby fund BeLonG To’s anti-homophobic bullying campaigns, I just found it really inappropiate.

Aside from that, she was hilarious as always. Veda preformed a few numbers, along with a burlesque performance from Sade O’Sapphic and then drag king Slick-O entertained the crowd. After that, DJ Anto hit the decks and soon people were swarming to the dancefloor.

BeLonG To prom is probably one of the best nights I’ve had this year. It was just so much fun, like there is actually nothing I can fault about the night. The atmosphere was perfect, people’s outfits were amazing, the guests were fantastic. And they played “All I want for Christmas is You”…what more could you want from a big night out? I just hope there’s another one next year.

And just a tip for all Gaelick readers – if you go next year, make sure to go to the George afterwards. In a tux. You will never be hit on more, trust me!!

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2. ID: Dublin’s youth-based LGBT club night
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Online ticket sales for Gay Prom 2010 have now closed, but BeLonG To have managed to convince the venue to permit some more to be sold. Tickets are €50.00 each and can be purchased on the door.

The Prom is for all ages from 18 and up, and gives everyone the chance to have the big, gay debs they’ve always wanted.

Proceeds go to BeLonG To youth services, supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender young people in Ireland

Only a limited number of tickets are available so arrive early to avoid disappointment!

BeLonG To: Gay Prom 2010!

A Coming Out Party For All Ages From 18 to Infinity!

Hosted by Senator David Norris and Katherine Lynch

Special Guests include: Senator David Norris, Katherine Lynch, Shirley Temple Bar, Veda Beaux Reves, Bitches with Wolves, Brendan Courtney.

8pm, October 24 2010
Radisson Blu Hotel, Golden Lane, Dublin 8, Ireland
Tickets €50.00

Over 18s only (ID Required). Management reserve the right of admission. Strictly no exchange or refunds on tickets.

• BeLonG To

• Gay Prom 2010 on Facebook

• Gay Prom 2010 on projectartscentre.ie (online purchasing is closed)

• Gay Prom 2010 on Gaelick

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On the night Ireland’s favourite Senator, David Norris and the always funny Katherine Lynch will host the proceedings while special guests, Shirley Temple Bar, Veda and Bitches with Wolves will provide the entertainment. A delicious buffet dinner, colourful debs dress and the crowning of the Prom King and Queen (with a twist) will add to the prom atmosphere.

“There’s tons of positivity and creativity surrounding The Gay Prom. I’m working with an amazing team of young gay people to transform the ballroom into a fantasy party land. We’re up to our eye lashes in metallic cloth and silver paper as we’re going all out to make it a very special night to remember. The acts are going to be sensational too. We’ve lined up the best of the best of Irish queer talent and there’s more performers coming on board daily. The inaugural Gay Prom was an incredible event but this one is going to top it!” said event organiser and Drag Queen, Veda (Enda McGrattan)

Commenting on the importance of an event like the Gay Prom, Michael Barron, Director of BeLonG To, said, “BeLonG To’s Gay Prom is a celebration and coming out party for people of all ages. It’s a fabulous party, but not only that – it’s about our community supporting its young people to come out safely and to have all the same opportunities as other young people. Because of bullying and exclusion school can be a really tough place for LGBT young people. Traditional school Debs can be difficult for them, with many not going and still more not being able to bring a same-sex partner. Gay Prom is about redressing this so that gay young people know that they are valued and have the same rights as everyone else.”

• For top tips on what to expect from your typical Gay Prom, check out this guide by Roisín Ingle with Gaelick.com

• Ireland’s official Gay Prom kicks off at 8.00pm on Sunday, 24th October 2010.  Tickets are priced at €50 and all proceeds go to BeLonG To, supporting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Trangender young people in Ireland. Tickets are available from www.belongto.org; from The Project Arts Centre, Temple Bar, Dublin 2; or by calling (01) 881 9613.

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Billed as a “Coming Out Party For All Ages From 18 to Infinity!”, it’s open to all age groups and if the last Gay Prom is anything to go by, there truly will be a spectrum of all ages present on the night, which will be hosted by Senator David Norris and Katherine Lynch. Special guests at the prom include Shirley Temple Bar, Veda and  Bitches with Wolves, with more acts to be announced at a later point.

I know where I come from, if you didn’t have a date to the debs (or ‘grad’ as it’s called in Roscommon), you simply didn’t go. And, of course, bringing a same sex date was unheard of. And then there’t the fact that there wasn’t even a chance in hell I could have gotten away with wearing a suit…Debs dresses were the only option. But I have my tuxedo all ready for October!

We’ve all heard the story of Constance McMillen in America who was told she couldn’t attend her prom if she brought her girlfriend. However, we don’t have to look that far afield to find stories of that nature, the same thing happened to a couple of my friends in a Dublin school a few years back. The BeLonG To prom will give you a chance to have that debs you always wanted.

I caught up with Michael Barron, the Director of BeLonG To to find out what the idea behind gay prom was.

BeLonG To’s Gay Prom 2010 is a celebration and coming out party for people of all ages. It’s a fabulous party, but not only that – it’s about our community supporting its young people to come out safely and to have all the same opportunities as other young people. We all know that traditional school Debs can be really difficult for LGBT young people, with many not going and still more not being able to bring a same-sex partner.

When asked about the impact that the programme Growing Up Gay (televised on RTE a few months ago) had had on the timing of the Prom;

We first ran Gay Prom in October 2008 in the Mansion House. It was a huge success and with its feature on RTE’s Growing Up Gay we have been inundated with requests to put it on again. This year it’s on Sunday October 24th, to coincide with traditional ‘Debs season’.

As for what the main attraction is at the prom this year

Senator David Norris and Katherine Lynch are our hosts and we have an amazing line up of guests and performers. Again this year Veda is event managing the whole show for us – what a hugely generous supporter! Project Arts Centre are also managing the box office and ticket sales for us (thank you!)

Michael also told me that the Prom is BeLonG To’s main fundraiser of the year, and that

All money raised from ticket sales will be going to ensure that we can continue to provide youth groups of LGBT young people and to tackle homophobic bullying

which is a worthy cause if I ever heard one!

The night will feature fabulous food, amazing acts and dancing until very late, together with the crowning of The Prom King and Queen, so this really is a not a night you want to miss.

Doors open 8pm.

Tickets are €50 and can be purchased on:

www.belongto.org

and

http://www.projectartscentre.ie/gayprom

You can also get tickets by calling 01 881 9613 or dropping into the Project Arts Centre, Temple Bar, Dublin 2.

Gay Prom 2010 is sponsored by SPIN FM, Google and The George.

BeLonG To Youth Services’ Annual Fundraising Ball to Support lesbian, Gay Bisexual & Transgender Young People in Ireland

(Charity No. 16534)

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Yesterday saw the official launch of ‘LGBT Diversity Programme’, an initiative designed to support LGBT people and to coordinate preexisting groups.  According to the website

The Programme will facilitate LGBT organisations and activists to collectively mobilise and engage with the wider community in order to advocate strategically and effectively on gender and sexuality issues. The ultimate aim of the Programme is to promote an Ireland that celebrates diversity, where LGBT people are an integral part of society

The organisation is set up with an independent chair person and five programme staff.  It is a coordinated national response by nine LGBT organisations including BeLongTo, TENI, Outhouse and several regional groups.  Anna Nolan will serve as ambassador for the Programme.

You can listen to the launch speeches in the following video

There will be several working groups which look very interesting, including a parents research working group and also the programme’s site has an extensive resources page.

I have to say that the individual groups at work deserve a great deal of credit for all that they do but to see an organised effort to coordinate them must be a welcome support mechanism, especially in rural areas.  The website of this programme is well worth a look, you can have a browse through the extensive work this programme intends to take on here.

The name says it all, there is power in diversity.

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