Pride of the Déise 2024: 'Let's stand together to combat harmful narratives'

Happy Pride!  

As we start Pride of the Déise 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the efforts of our dedicated committee over the past seven months.  

In November, we reached out to our community through a survey, seeking feedback and insights to ensure that this year's festival truly reflects the desires and needs of our community. The overwhelming response and support we received have inspired us to answer the call with the biggest Pride festival Waterford has ever seen!

Community events and spaces play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and unity among us. I am heartened by the incredible support we have received from local businesses, venues, and other community resources. 

What we lack in a dedicated queer venue in Waterford, we more than make up for with the abundance of amazing community events created by many dedicated volunteers and artists.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges we face as a community. The rise in hate speech and violence, coupled with the spreading of lies and misinformation about the LGBTQ+ community, particularly our trans siblings, is deeply concerning. 

We are witnessing rhetoric reminiscent of the fear-mongering and misinformation directed towards gay cis-men 50 years ago. 

It is imperative that we stand together to combat these harmful narratives and ensure the safety and well-being of all members of our community and also all marginalised communities.  This year marks the 50th anniversary of Ireland's first Pride demonstration in Dublin, where 12 courageous individuals marched to the British Embassy to demand the decriminalisation of homosexuality. 

As we commemorate this milestone, we reflect on how far we have come in Ireland, while also recognising the challenges that lie ahead. Pride of the Déise 2024 is a celebration of our history and heritage, a testament to our resilience, and a bold declaration of our bright, inclusive, and unabashedly queer future.

I am immensely proud to be a part of this vibrant and diverse community, and I am filled with hope and excitement as we come together to celebrate Pride this year.  Let us embrace this opportunity to stand proudly, to celebrate who we are, and to continue fighting for equality, acceptance, and love for all.

With pride and solidarity, Amy  (Chairperson, Pride of the Déise).

For scheduling and ticket information, click here.