Rainbow DiverseAbilities Taking Pride in Inclusivity
By Richard Bunn (he/him) - Facilitator: Rainbow DiverseAbilities
Gayze Gaymes
be they physical, sensory, emotional or social; including mobility access in general. Many theatres and cinemas now hold occasional times that are sensory-relaxed with lower levels of light and volume; it would be wonderful to see ‘relaxed zones’ extend further into all areas of life, including other events within the LGBTQIA+ community. As the festivities of Cork Pride 2024 unfurl, the members of Rainbow DiverseAbilities move proudly among the participants, embodying the spirit of celebrating unity in diversity. Group member Rebecca says ‘I think everyone should be treated fairly and equally regardless of their abilities… you should never judge a book by its cover!’. In our inaugural year of formation, we invite everyone to join us in embracing our differences and championing inclusivity not only for our sexualities and genders, but in all its forms.
We’re not only a place to have a cuppa and a chat, but also engage in activities and people are welcome to work on their own small drawing/crafting projects. In March, we explored a journey of self-expression with our ‘Clay Welcomes Play’ workshop facilitated by Jennifer Fitzgerald of Early Earth. More than just an artistic outlet; this was an opportunity to celebrate our individuality and the potential within each of us. We also had the pleasure of attending ‘ADHD & The Arts’, by the Cork branch of ADHD Ireland at the Triskel Arts Centre. This spotlighted the creative potential of ADHD, and we witnessed the unique talents and perspectives of creatives within the neurodivergent community who harness ADHD’s connection to artistic expression. Events like these help to create connections, reshape societal perceptions of what it means to be neurodivergent, and the many positives that our distinctiveness can bring to the world. The significance of having this social space cannot be overstated. We already encounter many barriers navigating a world without our needs in mind. Accessibility continues to remain a huge challenge, with many venues not having access for multiple reasons,
There’s a vibrant spectrum of diversity within the LGBTQIA+ community, not only in our sexualities and genders but also in our myriad of abilities. I found inspiration for Rainbow DiverseAbilities while watching the Netflix show ‘Special’ which portrays the experiences of a gay blogger who has cerebral palsy who joined a group for people with disabilities. Instantly ‘We need something in Cork!’ lit up in my brain. This led me to pitch the idea to Gay Project to create Rainbow DiverseAbilities. We’re a monthly 18+ social cafe hosted by Gay Project that provides a welcoming space led by, and for, those of us in the LGBTQIA+ disabled and/ or neurodivergent community. Whether you have a medical diagnosis or self-identify, you are equally accepted. Since November 2023, we’ve opened our doors on the ground floor of the South Parish Community Centre, for accessibility, every second Wednesday of the month. Offering friendly faces and refreshments to folks wanting a place where they are safe to unmask and connect with others who have shared experiences, and forge bonds of understanding and inclusivity without judgment, questions or need for explanation.
As the group nights are in the Gay Project, we are fortunate to have a large space that can handle multiple game groups, with tables, chairs and beanbags for comfort and a large projector and tv for video games. Gay Project also freely contributes an endless supply of tea, coffee and snacks for refuelling between the games. Our members help us steer the game nights agenda. Everyone can bring their own games but there is a library of games and game equipment available for use too. We plan to add to the group collection based on the members recommendations. Eventually, we hope to run more regular game nights, and special events such as charity tournaments, socials and group convention trips. Gayze Gaymes meets monthly from 6-8pm at Gay Project on Sawmill Street in Cork City. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for upcoming date and details. And feel free to message or email if you have any questions. Email: gayzegaymes@gayproject.ie Instagram: @gayzegaymes Facebook: Gayze Gaymes
Are you in need of a space to geek out and hang with other LGBTQ+ gaymers?
Gayze Gaymes is a community based group where people can gather, play games and make new friends. The group was formed this year, kicking off with board game nights and then expanded to include video games as member attendance grew. We’re also interested in branching out to other types of games such as card games or tabletop rpgs. We want to do our best to provide whatever gaming experience current and new members are craving!
Instagram: @Rainbow_DiverseAbilities linktr.ee/RainbowDiverseAbilities
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