To mark the 10th Anniversary of Marriage Referendum, the team behind the Yes Equality Campaign in collaboration with Dublin Pride are organising a day-long event at the National Museum of Ireland in Collins Barracks, Dublin.
Taking place on Saturday, May 24, the ‘What A Difference A Day Made’ event will be a day-long community celebration to mark 10 years since Ireland voted “Yes” in the Marriage Referendum. It will feature a vibrant lineup of performances, music, and talks aimed to celebrate the progress made so far and to acknowledge the work that lies ahead in the fight for equality.
Among the talented artists who will perform at the event are Tolü Makay, Niamh Bury and Bobbi Arlo. The event will also see choral performances from Gloria, Choral Confusion, The Belle Harmonics, and Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus.
Participants will also be able to enjoy lively céilí and a DJ set, and to eat delicious bites from several food trucks available on the day. In addition, over 20 LGBTQ+ community organisations will be in attendance, offering an opportunity to connect with the groups working for queer people across the country.
Speaking ahead of the event, Co-Director of the Yes Equality campaign Brian Sheehan said: “On 22 May 2015, Ireland became the first country in the world to grant equal marriage rights to same-sex couples by a vote of the people.
“The 10-year anniversary of the remarkable result in the Marriage Referendum is an opportunity to thank the voters who voted yes in such large numbers to allow same sex couples to marry and to enjoy the constitutional protections for us and our families.
“It’s also an opportunity to thank all of our allies and the organisations who worked for that yes vote – including trade unions, civil society, community and human rights organisations, student unions and most importantly the 70 Yes Equality groups and LGBTIQ+ organisations across the country”, Sheehan continued.
“The community-led event, open to everyone, on Saturday 24th May will reflect on the joy and happiness that flowed from the marriage referendum. It will explore the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ communities now, especially in the face of rising hostility and unfinished legal protections in Ireland.”
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Co-CEO of Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride Jamie Kenny also commented on the celebration, saying: “We were delighted to help the Marriage Referendum +10 committee organise this event.”
“The world can seem a little hostile lately, so it’s important that we let our hair down and party, celebrating everything we’ve achieved. But it’s also a moment to recognise the work ahead, especially in standing up for our trans, non-binary, and intersex siblings.
“Our community has shown time and time again that when we come together, we can achieve incredible things. We stand up for one another, we celebrate together, and we support each other through every challenge. We’re optimistic, we’re hopeful, and we’re ready to keep pushing for equality for all. So, join us on May 24th for a dance and be part of what comes next.”
The celebration has been organised by the team behind the Yes Equality Campaign with funding and logistical support by Dublin Pride. To register for this free event, click here.
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