Wicklow Pride has postponed an event in Newtownmountkennedy after claiming to receive threats of protests from 'a small minority' of locals.
The group said its Rainbow Disco, originally scheduled for June 30th, would be postponed to an unspecified date.
It said the decision was “not made lightly” and its priority is on the “safety and well-being" of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly young people.
Wicklow Pride Chair Patrick Bracken said the disco – aimed at young people - was due to take place at Newtownmountkennedy Community Centre.
“But after a number of threats of protests from members of the Newtownmountkennedy community, we have had no choice but to postpone it,” he said.
"Young people's health, mental health and welfare is our priority, and we don't want to risk having anything take place with protests happening that might be detrimental to their mental health and their overall wellbeing.”
He said the postponement would not affect other events scheduled for Wicklow Pride, including a march on July 6th.
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In a statement, Wicklow Pride said members of the group were facing “malicious accusations” of “grooming” young people.
“Just today, one of our committee members experienced a horrifying invasion of privacy when someone placed a vile note through their letterbox, branding them with that same disgusting accusation,” it said.
“These actions underscore the very reason we need Pride - we stand against hate, bigotry, and ignorance.
“People often ask why we need Pride. Isn't the answer clear? We face threats, accusations, and sometimes violence simply for being who we are.”
Wicklow Pride Youth Ambassador Bee Fennell said the Rainbow Disco was "designed to be a safe space for young people looking for support within their community".
"To the young members of our community, as said by our chair, Patrick Bracken, you're not alone, and we've got you," he said.
Wicklow Pride
The group called on people in Wicklow to attend the march in Wicklow town on July 6th.
It also asked businesses, “especially those in Newtownmountkennedy”, to decorate their shop windows with Pride flags.
Wicklow Councillor Danny Alvey said he was “deeply shocked and disturbed” by the threats against Wicklow Pride.
“It is clear that because of the recent protests surrounding the IPAS centre far-right hate and division has infiltrated the town and found a breeding ground,” he said online.
LGBTQ+ helpline:
Belong To: 01 670 6223 (Monday-Friday from 9am-1pm & 2pm-5pm)
Gender Identity Family Support Line: 01 907 3707
