A celebration of the LGBTQIA+ youth community, an online information service and the annual Pride Youth Party, are all part of a busy week of events as Limerick Youth Service (LYS) celebrate Limerick Pride 2024.
Organised by members of the LGBTQIA+ Youth Group, it will be a week of belonging, celebration, colour, live music and games with all young people invited to take part and join in the festivities.
‘we…welcome young people to a place where they can be themselves’
One of the highlights of the festival, will be the Pride Youth Party that will take place at Lava Javas Youth Café, on Friday, July 12th with popular local acts, Girlfriend and T.A. Narrative taking to the stage.
Speaking ahead of the event, Emily Panter, LYS said ‘we’re looking forward to a very enjoyable festival as we show our colours and welcome young people to a place where they can be themselves.’
‘The young people have been very busy organising the week and we can’t wait for the celebrations, particularly the Pride Youth Party, which is our flagship event,’ said youth worker Emily.
Away from the festivities, young people who would like to access information about LGBTQIA+ supports can speak in a confidence with a Youth Information Worker via an online chat service (see below).
‘Although attitudes have changed there are still young people for whom ‘coming out’ can be a lonely and tough place’
One of groups that have been to the fore in supporting young people is the LGBTQIA+ Youth Group, that is supported by LYS and GOSHH.
‘We have two groups (14-17yrs & 18-23yrs) who meet weekly at LYS where they can meet friends and access support and information on issues such as sexuality and gender,’ said Emily.
‘Although attitudes have changed there are still young people for whom ‘coming out’ can be a lonely and tough place and this is where our group helps to give them a sense of space where they can feel they belong,’ said Emily.
Part of the wider Limerick Pride Festival, the Pride youth events are open to all young people regardless of gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation with full details available below:
For information on the Pride youth events please contact Emily at emily.panter@limerickyouthservice.org or call/text 061-412444 or 087-3508572.
LYS has a proud tradition of engaging with and supporting young people who identify as members of the LGTBQIA+ Community.
Established in 1973 by Sr. Joan Bowles, LYS remains committed to connecting with young people and supporting them to reach their full potential.
LYS is a member of Youth Work Ireland and the Irish Association of Community Training Centre Organisations.
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