A MESSAGE FROM AN TAOISEACH
I want to extend my best wishes to the LGBTIQ+ community and all its allies as Cork Pride 2025 unfolds. This year marks a decade since Ireland made history by becoming the first country to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote. The majority in the 2015 referendum was a resounding affirmation of love and equality, signifying a widespread call for an inclusive and accepting Ireland. Pride is not just a celebration; it is a powerful symbol of solidarity, identity, and resilience. It brings people from every background together under the most upstanding of causes. As we celebrate, we must remember that the Pride movement began as a protest. This year’s theme ‘A Fearless Future. Your Pride, Your Culture’ reflects this, and it reminds us that the journey toward equality is always ongoing. Since its inception, Cork Pride has only gone from strength to strength. Through the dedicated efforts of selfless volunteers and the heartfelt participation of the LGBTIQ+ community in Cork and further afield, Cork Pride has grown into one of the largest and most successful Pride celebrations across the country. In Ireland, we take great pride in our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Over the years, legal obstacles have been gradually removed, support structures have been established, and awareness of LGBTIQ+ rights has significantly increased. Despite the progress we have made, our work is far from over. Through the second National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy, the Government is working hard to protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ people to enjoy their lives safely, free of harassment and violence, and create an Ireland that they are proud to call their home. While Pride is a celebration, it is also a time to honour the brave advocates who fought with such tenacity for equality and inclusivity. Their courage laid the groundwork for the freedoms enjoyed today. The fight for equality does not end at our shores, and we must continually renew our commitment to amplifying the voices of those still advocating for change in places where LGBTIQ+ people still face exclusion, criminalisation, and violence. On these matters, it is imperative that we are never silent.
As Taoiseach, the Government remains committed to implementing strategies that promote inclusion, equality, and safety for all members of the LGBTIQ+ community. We have come a long way as a country, but we acknowledge that there is still more work to do. We welcome the pursuit of that work. I wish everyone celebrating Pride 2025 the very best as you enjoy this wonderful festival of equality, diversity, respect, and love. Go raibh míle maith agaibh, and Happy Pride to you all.
Micheál Martin T.D. An Taoiseach
#CorkPride2025
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