Welcome to a very special March Issue of GCN, as we focus on the GALAS Awards 2020 – a celebration of all the people who work towards a better future for LGBT+ people both in Ireland and across the globe.

We feature the organisations and individuals who received awards for their contributions in areas such as arts, media, culture, health, social inclusion, sport, politics, advocacy and public life. Photographer extraordinaire Babs Daly fills the issue with stunning portraits and candid images capturing a night to remember. Babs also provided that beautiful cover image of Evgeny Shtorn, the GALAS Person of the Year. Inside, the pages, Evgeny speaks about activism, politics and how we need to end the shameful Direct Provision system.

Another highlight is a special feature looking at the 40 year history of the NXF – National LGBT Federation – and the Chairs who led it through decades of change, including David Norris, Ailbhe Smyth and GCN founder Tonie Walsh.

Congratulations to all the nominees and recipients and to all you everyday heroes who make up our Rainbow Family.