For a long time, our movement has centred around the needs of white, cis, able-bodied gay men. Over the years, however, we have worked hard to challenge this notion, to include people of colour and make sure that our bi, our trans, our intersex, our asexual and aromatic siblings feel welcome, seen and supported. While it is important to acknowledge how far we’ve come, there is a long road ahead of us, and there are many communities under our rainbow that need our support. 

For this volunteer profile, we sat down with Nem (she/her, they/them), a vocal advocate for persons with disabilities and the LGBTQ+ community, who has been involved with Dublin LGBTQ+ since 2018. 

How did you first become involved with Dublin Pride?

“In 2018, I worked for Together4Yes, the national campaign to repeal the 8th Amendment. As we were wrapping things up after the referendum, my friend Karl suggested that I pop over to Montague Street and speak to his friend Eddie because Dublin Pride was looking to hire more people for the festival that year. So after finishing up with the Together4Yes campaign, I thought I should do something different. I went to Montague Street, applied to work with Dublin Pride, and the rest is history!” 

What role does Dublin Pride play within the wider LGBTQ+ community?

“I think Dublin Pride is uniquely placed to form invaluable connections between different community groups; many of which are doing incredible work with few resources. Pride, at its best, is a touchstone that supports and brings together LGBTQI+ community organisations that nurture, console and fight for our community members every day and against all odds.

Its unique position allows Pride to support members of our community whose voices too often go unheard. This includes Traveller and migrant LGBTQI+ folk, the transgender community, intersex people and disabled queer folk. It’s been wonderful to see Pride grow into this role, with innovations such as Winter Pride and the Older Than Pride and neuro[diverse] queer social groups.

The visibility and pride that the Dublin Pride Festival brings to our community can’t be overstated. The sheer joy of being able to be as queer as you like in the heart of your city and celebrated for it just can’t be put into words. Attending my first Pride soothed old wounds I didn’t even know I had and gave me a feeling of belonging.”

What has been your most memorable moment while volunteering for Dublin Pride?

“There are many to choose from, but a moment that meant a lot to me personally was when an older lesbian who used mobility aids sought me out at the Pride Village Quiet Zone after the parade to tell me that the accessibility initiatives I’d introduced while with Pride had enabled her to be there. It meant so much to her and her partner that they could be part of the parade thanks to the Rainbow Bus provided by Dublin Bus, and she confided that she had resigned herself to never being able to participate in Dublin Pride and to celebrate with her community in her lifetime. It’s a moment that has stayed with me and motivated me to always seek to include as much of our community as possible in everything we do.”

What advice would you give to someone who was considering volunteering for Dublin Pride?

“Do it! You’ll learn so much from being part of Dublin Pride. From the experiences to the amazing volunteer crew, who are as brilliant, funny, caring and passionate a group as you could ever hope to meet. Volunteers also bring their own invaluable experiences and insights to the table. They raise issues and suggest ideas to keep Pride growing and improving when it comes to representing our diverse and thriving LGBTQI+ community.”

In 2005, the disabilities act was brought into law to ensure that people with disabilities can fully participate in society. The act was brought forward and passed to further the rights of a person with a disability both physical and mental conditions. How has this act changed the lives of people with disabilities?

“Disabled people exist in all of our communities but are too often excluded, marginalised and unseen. We too easily assume that disabled people’s existence and the struggle for equality can be reduced solely to access and healthcare issues and fail to include the largest minority group in our advocacy. We forget that the same standard we expect in all our other work – nothing about us without us – also extends to our disabled siblings and that approximately 1 in 5 members of our community is disabled.

Accessibility is incredibly important, and it’s heartening to see the steps being taken in this direction by many community groups. What most people don’t realise though, is that many disabled people don’t have equal legal and civil rights in this country right now. Disabled people to this very day continue to be locked up in institutions against their will, denied their right to marry the person they love, to start a family, or even choose what to wear, when to eat or where to go. Any one of us interested in and working towards equality needs to listen to the voices of disabled people – and not just people claiming to speak on their behalf – so that we can be true allies and create a truly equal society for all.”

Has accessibility improved in the LGBTQ+ community to include people with disabilities?

“I have seen a genuine commitment to and interest in accessibility from many of the community groups I’ve worked with. This gives me hope that if we stand together, we can finally turn the tide on disability rights in Ireland. No minority can successfully secure their rights and bring about social inclusion without allies, and I sincerely believe that there are many communities, organisations and individuals in Ireland who want to be true allies to all who are marginalised and unheard.

There is also much we can learn from each other. Conversion therapies continue to be widely used on autistic and other neurodivergent (ND) children. The lessons learned from the LGBTQ+ activists who did such great work in stopping the use of conversion therapy against queer kids could help save lives and break the cycle of trauma for the next generation of ND people. Disabled people’s organisations are some of the best people to turn to for life hacks online and alternative forms of organising, having years of experience of ‘business as usual’ not being an option. We are stronger together and our communities richer when all of us have a seat at the table.”

Why is activism important to you?

“When you think of the strides Ireland has made towards real equality over the past decades – from Marriage Equality and Repeal to the Stand for Truth rally and the Justice for Magdalenes campaign – they all came about from the work of activists and advocates over many years. Although we still have a long way to go in terms of trans healthcare, the This Is Me campaign has been incredible in increasing public understanding and awareness of the issue and placing it on the government’s agenda. Advocacy is also fundamental in shifting public attitudes to create a more understanding, compassionate and inclusive society and in educating legislators on the impact and gaps of current laws. Some legislators, particularly the Seanad’s Civil Engagement Group, have introduced and amended legislation in ways that make meaningful changes in people’s real lives by engaging with advocates, activists and community organisations, showing that dedicated advocacy can genuinely shape the country we live in.

That being said, there are many among us who are still pushed to the margins and who don’t have equal access to rights many of us take for granted, including undocumented migrants and people living in Direct Provision, our trans and intersex siblings, Deaf and disabled people, people of colour, adoptees, LGBTQ+ parents and sadly many more – we all need to demand better and to make sure that no-one gets left behind.”

Finally, how are you getting through life in lockdown?

“Luckily, through my involvement in disability rights, feminist, LGBTQI+ and anti-racist groups, I have both been kept busy and gotten to work alongside fantastic and uplifting people. In particular, the disabled advocates I know are witty, passionate and strong as hell and have kept me positive and supported over the past year. I’m also autistic and mobility-impaired, so remote working and not being able to access all the social spaces I’d like to, is something I’ve been learning to do for years. Although things will be tough for the foreseeable future, I’m hopeful that we’ll get through it and that we’ll build on the accessibility improvements and new ways to connect with our communities that Covid has shown are possible.”

The Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride Volunteer Programme aims to be as diverse and inclusive as possible. We welcome volunteers from all communities as well as LGBTQ+ allies and aim to provide a safe space for everyone. If you are interested in joining the volunteer team at Dublin Pride, please fill out this form.

Bringing volunteers to the table and actively involving them in the decision-making process can be beneficial for organisations and their leaders. Fresh perspectives and new ideas lay bare systemic weaknesses and pave the way for reform. The Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride Volunteer Programme encourages the participation of its volunteers to ensure that the organisation remains as progressive as possible.          

We sat down with Vivek (he/him), who is originally from India, to chat about his experience with the Irish LGBTQ+ community compared to his home country, and why he became a Dublin Pride volunteer.

What has your experience as a gay immigrant in Ireland been like?

“I always wanted to be part of the LGBTQI+ community, which I did not get to do in my home country India. Until September 2018, when India’s highest court overturned the law that made homosexuality illegal, it was tough for me to be openly gay and supportive of the LGBTQ+ community at home.

Compared to India – where homosexuality was illegal when I moved out and I only had a small but supportive community – the LGBTQI+ community in Ireland is liberated and proactive when it comes to driving change.

I also appreciate the support of allies, but I strongly believe that even though our community has come a long way, we still have a lot to achieve because we are becoming more and more diverse. I am proud to be part of this change, and I want to contribute as much as I can.

Organisations like Dublin Pride are important not just because they organise festivals and parades but because they create events for members of the LGBTQI+ community to take part in.”

Apart from being an active member of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland, Vivek enjoys Bollywood music and dancing.

Could you briefly explain Bollywood for those who are unfamiliar with the tradition?

“Bollywood dancing comes from Indian movies and has its roots in  Indian classical and folk dance forms. Bollywood dancing is known for people coming together to dance in large groups and in stunning locations and costumes to make the cinematic experience more beautiful.  

Indian movies have always inspired me, and Bollywood dancing has become a way for me to express myself. I like how it allows you to work through all kinds of emotions and different moods.” 

How would you define the importance of cultural upbringing?

“I believe what I am today is because of my culture. It has taught me my values, beliefs and opinions and way of looking at life. That being said, Indian culture is very diverse, with a large population and many different languages and different ways of dressing or eating.

India’s history has taught me to be open and accepting of diversity. The fight for our independence is one of the greatest examples in the world’s history of strength in unity. My cultural values are what makes me unique in Ireland.”

When did you decide to move to Ireland and what was it like moving to a new country?

“I’d been working in a corporate job for some years before I moved to Ireland in 2017. I was lucky enough to find a job after finishing my postgrad in Advertising & Marketing, but after working for a few years, I found my work getting a bit repetitive and boring. I decided to take a break, so I thought I’d go back to college, but this time in a different country. Leaving my country for the first time was a big step, and I was both excited and nervous, but coming to Ireland was one of the best decisions of my life. The country and its people have been so warm and welcoming to people from other countries.

Before coming to Ireland, I read somewhere on the internet that it’s one of the friendliest countries, and I can assure you that is true. Let me share a story from my early days here. I was on my way to view a house, and when I reached the door, this Irish lady was standing there and welcoming me with her hands joined for namaste. I had the best time staying with them, and they made me feel like home.”

What has your experience been like as an international student?

“It has been an amazing experience. Being an international student can be extra hard because you have to get accustomed not only to the weather but also to local life, the legal system and so on. My class had students from so many other countries, and I learned something new about a different culture every single day. The moments I spent celebrating birthdays, hanging out, going for coffees and nights out – even working on assignments – are something I will cherish for life.” 

What advice would you give to someone who is considering studying abroad?

“Be strongminded, and focus on what you came for. One thing I really believe is that there is so much more to the world than meets the eye. Be open to learning and growing as a person. Try to learn and understand local life, and respect and be kind to everyone you meet. Doing this can make your life easier when you are an immigrant away from home.”

What has Dublin Pride’s role been in welcoming you to the LGBTQ+ community?

“Dublin Pride is such an amazing organisation that brings the people in our community and our allies together. I am especially moved by the immense support from our allies that I have experienced because at the end of the day we also need straight people to support the LGBTQI+ community. Dublin Pride gave me the freedom of being myself and welcomed me with open arms. Even though I was new to the team, they didn’t hesitate to trust me with important duties and responsibilities.”

Why is volunteering important to you?

“Service to others is a key part of my culture. Mahatma Gandhi said, ‘The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.’ Someone who volunteers for Dublin Pride will not regret their decision, and they will truly cherish giving back to the community.”

What has been your most memorable moment while volunteering for Dublin Pride?

“When I got the opportunity to be Flag Marshal for the Parade in 2019. Leading a 65 m long rainbow flag and progression gave me an immense feeling of pride and of being part of the community and the team. I was surrounded by a great team of volunteers that year, so I knew I had the support of not only them but also the Chief Marshal and the Dublin Pride Team.”

Volunteering for Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride is an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and work with a fantastic team of like-minded people who care about advancing LGBTQ+ rights. If you are interested in joining the volunteer team at Dublin Pride, please fill out this form.

Volunteers donating their time and skills are the backbone of many non-profit organisations. However, they too often remain anonymous. To recognise and acknowledge their contributions to our community, we want to shine a light on some of our Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride volunteers.

Last year, we sat down with Gilly (she/her) to chat about volunteering with Dublin Pride, the wider LGBTQ+ community and her love for body art.

How did you first become involved with Dublin Pride?

“In the early 2000s, while I was living in the UK, I decided to visit as many Pride Festivals as I could. Throughout the years, I’ve volunteered and marched in the Manchester, Brighton and Soho Pride Festivals. You could call it my tour de pride.

I didn’t have the easiest experience coming out, and doing the tour de pride was definitely part rebellion, a little bit of trying to catch up and understanding and becoming part of the LGBTQ+ scene. The rest was trying to do something for queers still in the closet, so they wouldn’t have the same experience I had.

After taking part in all these Pride celebrations in the UK, I wanted to check out the growing efforts here. I moved to Ireland after marching in the 2006 Dublin Pride Parade and joined the organisation as a volunteer because I felt that I could contribute to the festival.”

What has it been like volunteering with Dublin Pride?

“When I joined Dublin Pride in 2007, I was an ordinary festival volunteer in the Pride Village. Over time, I climbed the ladder of positions available to a volunteer to being partly in charge of organising several events for Dublin Pride.

In 2011, I was appointed Deputy Chief Marshal in charge of all the events as well as a member of the Dublin Pride secondary pride. I later took on a position on the voluntary Board of Directors. After years on the Board, I took a break from Dublin Pride but soon after was asked to oversee the parade as Chief Marshal. When I resigned from my position as Chief Marshal in 2017, I really intended to leave Pride. Turns out that’s easier said than done!”

This year, the Pride Festival & Parade moved online due to COVID-19 restrictions. What was that like for you?

“I have to say, being part of the “lockdown parade” this year was definitely a very unconventional experience. We couldn’t host the normal parade with our usual 50,000+ attendance of people from all across Ireland representing every part of our wonderful community.”

What’s the significance of Pride parades and festivities for the LGBTQ+ community?

“Pride will always be important to LGBTQI+ people as it is an opportunity to express yourself as a member of the community but also to advocate for the causes you support. As a community, we are continually growing and diversifying. As we become better educated about language and lived experiences, it is vital that everyone feels they have a space to be seen, heard and represented. 

Over the years, we have grown from being a community for LGB (Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals) to a more inclusive community which represents people who identify as LGBTQI+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning and Intersex).”

What advice would you give to someone who was considering volunteering for Dublin Pride?

“Dublin Pride volunteers are ordinary people who are passionate, awesome at what they do and willing to lend a hand or give advice to a fellow volunteer. They become like your second family.

I think if you wanted to join the team, communication is essential to any role, and while sometimes the voices at the top might seem to be the most dominant that you shouldn’t be afraid to speak up, ask the hard questions, and send an email if you think something needs to be changed.”

What has been your most memorable moment while volunteering for Dublin Pride?

“There have been so many great memories! I think the most memorable moment as a Dublin Pride volunteer has to be my first year as Chief Marshall of the parade and to feel the entire parade waiting with excitement for you to start the march through Dublin City.

I nearly freaked because I was sure that everyone was just waiting for me to drop the flag. This tremendous feeling hasn’t decreased, and it’s what I feel every year as the parade waits to begin its march. When I left my role as Chief Marshal in 2017, I remember stopping as the parade finished and looking at the crowd as they danced and celebrated. It was a sight to behold; all this energy from such a small community.”

Can you describe what it has been like to work beside the volunteer team in Dublin Pride?

“These people have stood with me at some of my lowest moments and been there to cheer me through some of my best times.”

Outside of LGBTQ+ advocacy, I know that you are passionate about tattooing and burlesque performing. Can you tell me a little bit more what they mean to you?

“The tattoo and burlesque scenes in Ireland are growing significantly, with both being seen as forms of self-expression and autonomy. There is also a growing acceptance of both fields within the general community. Where tattoos were once seen as a sign of questionable morals, they are now seen more as a sign of individuality and creativity.

While it’s true that just like with every demographic there are some elitists, as a whole, both communities are very welcoming and very supportive.

The performance sector in Ireland as well is generally very supportive, and there are incredible teachers from pole to burlesque, belly dancing and even circus skills. Not only are the sense of community and the flow of energy while performing empowering, but there are also aspects of dance that you can apply to the outside world, such as posture and breathing. They can really improve your overall health and confidence.”

How has burlesque and cabaret performing influenced your life?

“Even though I have been on stage in front of thousands of people, and I’ve had several thousand people following me in the parade, I suffer from social anxiety and very low self-esteem. 

Working with burlesque and cabaret groups, I have been fortunate to feel welcomed, accepted and valued. It also made me more confident in my skills as a stage manager and event coordinator. The biggest lesson I learned from it is that you can often find your stars – with all their sparkle and grace – backstage going through routines their anxiety routines. They’re all just regular people.”

What advice would you give to someone who wants to become involved in burlesque and cabaret but maybe lacks confidence when it comes to performing?

“There are so many ways to break into the scene. With so many shows going on, my first advice would be to go to a show, watch it and completely take it apart in your mind. Pay attention to the stage, the lights, the acts, the cues, the host. Have an act ready that you could pop out in the middle of Aldi, should the fancy strike you. Something you know inside out. Most importantly, speak to the producers. If you can’t get a hold of them straight away, talk to other people behind the scenes like the stage crew or performers. Someone that might introduce you to the right people, or if you can’t get a hold of anyone, look them up online. Groups like The Dirty Circus, Sideshow Dramas and Undercurrent are always very open to new things.” 

What is your stance on the significance of “meaningful” tattoos as opposed to getting tattoos-for-tattoos sake?

“I think this will remain an open-ended question in tattooing. There is an increase in the number of ‘story tattoos’ being commissioned. Be it something associated with a place you travelled to or the memorial of your dog. For me, all of my tattoos have been designed with a specific meaning in mind that will never be tattooed on another person in this way. That said, I don’t consider them any more or less individual than folks who pick an image off a flash sheet. I think, ultimately, whether a tattoo is a custom job or not, every tattoo is in some way part of your personal story. Tattoos are a commitment; no one gets a tattoo that they’ll remove a year later. So there has to be an attachment to the content of the image.”

Gilly’s is one of many stories to be told. Stay tuned for more volunteer profiles such as hers and to learn more about the volunteers behind Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride.

If you are interested in joining the volunteer team, please fill out this form.