Welcome, dear reader, to the October/November edition of GCN with a feast of quality queer content in store. There’s a wonderful interview with the Irish activist Michael Barron who has devoted his life to making the world better for the queer community. Michael graces the cover in a portrait by the talented Hazel Coonagh. In a special preview of What It’s Like To Be - an exciting video series by GCN - a multitude of LGBTQ+ people share their stories.

On the culture side of things, actor and writer Billy Eichner talks about his hilarious new film Bros, Adrian+Shane hint at what to expect from their new exhibition 17 Ways to a Better You, and the Outburst Festival in Belfast give us a sneak peek of what’s in store. There’s an eye-opening interview with a lesbian couple who share their experiences with BDSM, while in the latest of our series looking back at iconic queer nightspots, we learn more about Loafers in Cork.

We’re proud to platform personal essays from our community, including a lesbian woman who went through the inhumane Direct Provision system, a poignant story from a writer who discusses the gruelling experience of fertility treatment, and there’s an excellent discussion about the fluidity of identity.

Just in time for Halloween, you can enjoy a colourful piece looking at queer holidaymakers visiting America for the spooky season, and finally, expect a touching look at the Irish Names Quilt. Read on and enjoy!