As the founder of Queer Asian Pride Ireland (QAPI), Pradeep Mahadeshwar is proud to announce a new partnership initiative with Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre. The QPOC Peer Support Group is a space where LGBTQ+ people of colour can connect, share, and thrive. Created in collaboration with Outhouse, the group provides a safe and inclusive environment for participants to affirm both their queer and racial identities. 

Ireland has become increasingly diverse and multicultural, with significant demographic shifts over the past decade. According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), immigration to Ireland has steadily increased since 2012, contributing to a more diverse society. Many LGBTQ+ individuals migrate to Ireland seeking safer environments to express their identities, aligning with global patterns of queer migration influenced by legal protections, social acceptance, and community networks.

Despite progress, navigating queer spaces in Ireland as a person of colour remains challenging. Studies and lived experiences highlight ongoing issues of isolation and racism within LGBTQ+ communities. While the Irish LGBTQ+ community has made strides in inclusivity, the experiences of queer people of colour (QPoC) often exist separately, with limited intersectionality between their realities and those of their white counterparts.

This underscores the urgent need for dedicated spaces where QPoC can gather, share experiences, and build solidarity. The enthusiasm of the Outhouse team in opening their doors for such initiatives is a positive step forward. However, it is crucial for Irish LGBTQ+ leaders and organisations to strategically invest in infrastructure that specifically supports LGBTQ+ people of colour, ensuring long-term inclusivity and representation within the community.

This pilot project will be reviewed every six months by QAPI and Outhouse to assess its outcomes and implement necessary improvements. QAPI aims to expand this support group beyond Dublin in the coming years.

 

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How does the support group work?
Each session is facilitated by Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre volunteers who guide discussions, but the participants shape the focus of the group. Sessions are loosely structured to ensure everyone has a chance to contribute, fostering a supportive and empowering environment.

When is the support group?
The QPOC Peer Support Group is held monthly, typically on the second Thursday of each month from 6pm to 8pm at Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre.

Who can attend?
This is an affinity group, meaning it is open only to LGBTQ+ people of colour. You must also be over 18 years old to attend.

Is there a cost to attend?
No, the group is free to attend, but registration is required.

What topics and issues are discussed?
Sessions cover a wide variety of topics that encourage personal growth, such as:

• Building resilience
• Self-expression
• Art and creativity
• Fun and social engagement
• And more!

As a member of the group, you will have input into the topics and activities discussed. The group may also engage in creative activities and practical learning to support members’ development.

How can I sign up?
To sign up for the QPOC Peer Support Group, simply fill out the registration form, and we will be in touch to confirm your details. If you need support to complete the registration form, please contact our team.

QAPI extends its gratitude to Oisín O’Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre, and Hannah Kelly, Programmes and Services Manager, along with the entire Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre staff for supporting this futuristic initiative. We look forward to building a stronger, more inclusive queer community together!