Jon Hanna, an immediately recognisable campaigner and activist for human rights, passed earlier this week.
Jon was a partner, a father, a friend and a tireless fighter for others. Ireland’s LGBT+ community remember a great man and send their love and thoughts to his family and friends.
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Jon Hanna. Jon had such an impact on so many in our community. His work with Bi+ Ireland, RQR & Repeal are a reflection of the compassionate person he was. Our thoughts go to his family and friends at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/XjUKry8UpC
— Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride (@DublinPride) March 13, 2019
Last year in our Repeal Issue of GCN we ran a feature about an amazing queer direct action activist group, Radicals Queers Resist. The portrait that accompanied the feature is a powerful one; a group of defiant queers stand with rainbow flags aloft, fluttering in the wind. In the centre of that picture stands Jon Hanna, a striking presence in his signature long leather jacket.
He has a bi flag held behind him like it’s a cape or wings and the word Repeal emblazoned across his chest. In the run up to the referendum this image became a beacon of hope and trust in the tireless work that activists like Jon were putting in to make our society a better place for us all.
Now, with the horribly tragic news of Jon’s passing, we’d like to think this image will serve as a testament to Jon’s legacy as a most integral and inspiring LGBT+ activist and beloved member of our community. Jon, you will be so missed.
Rest in Power.
Rest in Power, Jon Hanna. Funeral information and in memory of Jon.
The world is a little dimmer without you, let's all hug each other tight. https://t.co/6sFxIz1Zxu pic.twitter.com/No248svZZv
— Bi+ Ireland (@IRLBi) March 13, 2019
Bi+ Ireland, of which Jon was a coordinator, posted a heartfelt tribute:
“Jon Hanna was uncompromisingly and unapologetically himself. He was a leader for our communities, someone who led the way for many of us, whether literally at a march giving us sun cream, badges and a sure stride to follow, or inspiring with reassuring words in our community spaces, both on and offline.
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of our friend Jon Hanna. Jon's work and leadership on so many issues that affect our LGBT+ family and wider Irish society played a huge role in helping to make Ireland better. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
— TENI (@TENI_Tweets) March 13, 2019
“It’s hard to believe that Jon won’t be at Pride this year, or the March for Choice. Jon, who inevitably had a child in one arm and the other arm free for a hug. Jon who would be ready to chat, and ready to march with his children by his side, who would proudly carry a flag while pushing a pram.
Please take today to look after yourself, and to reach out to anyone you know who is struggling. Jon will be sorely missed, but we can take inspiration from his memory.
— Radical Queers Resist (@RadQueersResist) March 13, 2019
“This Saturday (March 16th) at 2pm we will gather at Newlands Cross Crematorium to say goodbye to Jon. At the request of the family, please no flowers – donations can be made to Abortion Support Network or Rape Crisis Centre. If you can, please wear your Repeal jumper or Free Safe Legal tshirt, or a Bi+/LGBTQIA pin or flag.
Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jon Hanna. He will be a familiar face to many as he seemed to be everywhere during the Repeal Campaign, whether that was covering up ICBR banners or offering support to everyone online. He is missed. pic.twitter.com/2lrywYaeCj
— How The Yes Was Won (@howtheyeswaswon) March 13, 2019
“If you would like to join our community to attend the funeral, please do. There is a group meeting at 12 pm on Saturday at the Olympia Theatre, Dame St, and getting the bus to the crematorium. Bring bus fare and look for the bi flags.
In memory of Jon Hanna and the love so many of us had for him, with Joanna's permission, I'm sharing a support fund to help his family through the practicalities of the worst time of their lives. Jon had a huge impact on so many. His loss is enormous.https://t.co/4AjYhmTUeK
— Sinéad Redmond @[email protected] (@sineadredmond) March 13, 2019
“A paypal has been set up to help his partner and their kids with the practicalities of these difficult times. If you would like to make a contribution you can do so at https://paypal.me/pools/c/8cXeElETIG.
If you wish to add your condolences or share your memories of Jon, we’re collecting them here and will pass on to his family.
We are all struggling with this news, and know that we will for some time. Please take the time to seek additional support for yourself if you feel like you might need it, and know that our community will be here for you now and into the future.”
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jon Hanna.
A formidable activist, a huge support to many and a great friend to the trans community.
Many have lost a truly passionate, caring, and knowlegable soul.
Rest in power Jon ✊ pic.twitter.com/LsVE0Mpz2a— ThisIsMe Campaign (@ThisIsMeIreland) March 13, 2019
If you are affected by this story or would like support at this time, please contact any of the following:
LGBT Helpline 1890 929 539
Samaritans 116 123
Dublin Rape Crisis Centre 1800 77 8888
Pieta House 1800 247 247
© 2019 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
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