WLR News focused on ‘LGBTQ+ Community Supports and Changes’ as part of our ‘Waterford in Focus’ News Special series, funded by the News Reporting Scheme.
Throughout the series, WLR’s Arthur Pushkin spoke to members of Waterford’s LGBTQ+ community, local organisations and campaigners about their experiences, the supports available across the county and how attitudes have changed over the years.
The series also explored the importance of community connections, the challenges facing LGBTQ+ people in Waterford and the role of family acceptance.
Pride of the Déise
Pride of the Déise is one of the organisations working to support and represent Waterford’s LGBTQ+ community.
As part of the series, WLR spoke to Dylan and Coralie, representatives of the organisation about their work, the importance of community support and the challenges facing LGBTQ+ people locally.
Hear from Pride of the Déise ⬇
Déise Pride FC
Sport can play an important role in bringing people together and creating a sense of belonging.
WLR also spoke to committee members Keith and Maddie of Déise Pride FC about the importance of having an inclusive sporting environment where LGBTQ+ people can connect, build friendships and participate in football.
Hear from members of Déise Pride FC here ⬇
The Importance of Family Support
Family acceptance and the experiences of people coming out as LGBTQ+ were also explored.
Cody Sweeney, a man from Dunmore East who came out as transgender in 2015, spoke openly about his experiences growing up, his transition and the support he received from his family.
He was joined by his sister Katie, who reflected on her own experiences, how their relationship has evolved and the importance of supporting loved ones.
The siblings also discussed some of the challenges their family faced and how understanding of transgender identities has changed over the past decade.
Hear from Cody and Katie Sweeney here ⬇
The Need for LGBTQ+ Social Spaces
The availability of dedicated LGBTQ+ social spaces in Waterford was another key topic explored throughout the series.
Community and Trade Union Organiser Michelle Byrne spoke to WLR about the importance of having places where members of the community can meet, socialise and build connections.
The discussion also explored the lack of dedicated LGBTQ+ venues in Waterford and the need for spaces beyond traditional nightlife settings.
Hear Michelle Byrne here ⬇
What do people in Waterford think?
As part of the series, WLR took to the streets of Waterford to hear people’s views on LGBTQ+ issues, changing attitudes and the importance of acceptance and inclusion.
Members of the public were asked to share their perspectives on the experiences of LGBTQ+ people and whether society has become more accepting over the years.
Hear what people had to say here ⬇
