Welcome, dear reader, to the December 2024 issue of GCN,  'Material World'

Just like that, another year has come and gone, leaving behind a whole host of challenges and triumphs. The current state of the world leaves a lot to be desired, but in order to move into 2025 with optimism, we take time to reflect, celebrate and organise throughout these pages.
Our cover star is the gorgeous Oran O’Reilly, photographed in The Fabric Counter by Alex Del Chill. Having spent 2024 working with the likes of Chappell Roan, CMAT and The Last Dinner Party, the young designer has solidified himself as one to watch over the next 12 months.

This magazine highlights plenty of other success stories, as we trace through some of the best LGBTQ+ news of the year, including the passing of hate crime legislation in Ireland. In a separate piece, the founder of Queer Asian Pride Ireland reflects on the year they’ve had, pointing out the progress the organisation has made for queer people of colour. This magazine also features an interview with a Hong Kong drag artist and some of the Irish creatives behind London’s LGBTQ+ parties. The Outing, a staple in Ireland’s event calendar, is also highlighted.

In a fabulous photographic spread, we showcase some of Ellen Blair’s new body of work, Homemade Undercuts. In other identity-focused pieces, we look at body modification, neurodiversity, and one writer’s coming out journey.

Other pressing issues in the LGBTQ+ community are discussed, including the untold history of HIV/AIDS in Ireland and intimate partner violence.
As 2024 draws to a close, several global crises persist. Concluding this magazine, we examine how humanitarians can best support those most in need, while the Hope and Courage Collective outlines the importance of keeping spirits high in these trialling times. It is no secret that the world is full of darkness, but there are still ways to offer light and lead the way for others to follow.

With that, we thank you, dear reader, for all of your support throughout 2024. Happy holidays and happy reading!