The Midlands LGBT+ Project team has announced that Athlone will host its first-ever Pride festival, called Heartlands Pride, on November 10-12, 2023!
The organisers shared: “This year Midlands LGBT+ Project, along with a team of unbelievably dedicated volunteers, are launching Athlone’s first ever Winter Pride,” adding that the whole weekend will focus on diversity, inclusion and acceptance.
Several local communities and businesses will be supporting the three-day event, which will feature market stalls highlighting local artists and educational workshops teaching about LGBTQ+ terminology and ways to offer support. The evenings will include some fantastic entertainment with opportunities for attendees to meet and connect with other queer people and allies.
The whole community is invited to come together and create a safe and welcoming environment for all. In addition to celebrating the community, this Pride weekend event aims to help raise awareness about the issues LGBTQ+ people face in Athlone and the surrounding Midlands areas.
The full lineup will be announced on The Midlands LGBT Project’s social media channels on Wednesday, October 11.
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From the same group that organised Laois Pride, the Midlands LGBT+ Project event team said: “Heartlands Pride is an important step forward for Athlone and the wider LGBT+ community. It’s a chance to show that no matter who you are or who you love, we should take pride in both ourselves and our wider community.”
The Midlands LGBT Project was established in February of 2021 with a goal of developing community for LGBTQ+ adults in the local area. The team hosts monthly social meet-ups, peer support groups and, Pride and awareness events, and offers support for parents of LGBTQ+ young people. These events help reduce feelings of isolation and create a sense of local queer community in the Midlands.
Anyone who volunteers with the organisation receives comprehensive training and support that equips them to empower others and make a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community. Those interested in volunteering can sign up to attend the next planning meeting.
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