On Monday, 1 July, Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre hosted a roundtable discussion between the leadership of numerous LGBTQ+ organisations on the island of Ireland and Jessica Stern, the U.S. Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons.
The roundtable provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss the pressing issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland, with the goal of highlighting these concerns to the Special Envoy and strengthening political support for advancing LGBTQ+ rights and equity in Ireland, and around the globe.
Key topics on the agenda included:
the increasing polarisation in the global debate on LGBTQ+ rights;
the importance of ‘All Island’ cooperation for LGBTQ+ work in Ireland;
The positive impacts of the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy in Ireland, and how its approach can be replicated by others.
The ongoing genocide in Palestine was raised, and the leaders of Irish LGBTQ+ organisations called for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, respect for the rule of law, and a rededication to advancing the two-state solution and ensuring a viable Palestinian State.
Leaders of LGBTQ+ organisations expressed their deep concerns about the alarming rise in hate and extremism targeting the LGBTQ+ community. This surge in hostility not only endangers the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Ireland but also mirrors a disturbing global trend that threatens the safety and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ people worldwide.
The urgent healthcare needs of trans and intersex individuals were raised. Participants emphasised the fundamental rights of these communities to bodily integrity, bodily autonomy, and access to timely, safe, and quality healthcare.
Concerns were raised about the flow of ‘dark money’ supporting anti-LGBTQ+ advocacy. The presence of unaccountable funds from the U.S. and Russia backing anti-LGBTQ+ movements is particularly troubling, especially in an environment where hate and extremism are on the rise and funding for LGBTQ+ organisations is increasingly at risk.
Speaking following the roundtable discussions, Oisin O’Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre, said “This roundtable discussion is a significant moment for Irish LGBTQ+ organisations to bring greater attention to these critical issues. Engaging with Special Envoy Stern was important to infuse her work with our expert perspectives and will have an influence on her global work to protect LGBTQI+ persons from violence and discrimination worldwide.”
ENDS
LGBTQ+ organisations in attendance
HERe NI
Intersex Ireland
Irish Council for Civil Liberties
LGBT Ireland
LINC Advocating for Lesbian and Bisexual Women in Ireland
Midlands LGBT+ Project
Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre
TENI
The National LGBT Federation
The Rainbow Project
Trans Healthcare Action
