Despite the rain, Cork’s LGBTQ+ community turned out in force for a peaceful protest
It was a sea of rainbow umbrellas and flags.
Despite the miserable weather and a Status Orange rain alert, Cork’s queer community turned out in force last night to add their voices to a peaceful protest at the Courthouse.
The steps of the building were heaving with supporters who were angered and dismayed by the removal of all LBGT flags and memorabilia at Chambers Bar on Washington Street as the business rebranded as Sinners to host events for Fresher’s Week.
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At exactly 9.30pm the group observed five minutes of silence, before the chant ‘We’re here, to stay, you can’t paint the gay away!’ began and echoed all over town.
Fundraiser
Meanwhile, more than €7,000 has been donated to a GoFundMe account raising money to provide an interim space for LGBTQ+ entertainers to gather and put on a show.
“Gay culture has been embedded in Cork for many years,” said Evan Murphy Keogh, who set up the campaign.
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“We are the home of the first LGBTQ+ bar in Ireland (Loafers), we have had an LGBTQ+ space since the 80’s and it also home to the first council (Cork City) to propose and pass support for the marriage referendum we held and eventually passed in 2015.
“Every one of us knows the importance of having a safe social space to meet someone for a date, chat with friends, kiss your partner, and generally be you. This is why this is important.”
You can donate to the effort here.
