Free workshop for parents will explore gender and LGBTQIA+ in Clare

QuareClare’s education committee has announced an upcoming workshop, "Creating Inclusive Homes and Spaces for LGBTQIA+ Youth in Clare," to take place on March 9 at Mna Ag Gaire (Women’s Shed) in Ennis.

Led by Karina Murray of Conscious Connections, this event will take place from 9:30am to 12:30pm and is tailored for parents, guardians, and those working with LGBTQIA+ youth.

The workshop will delve into essential topics to deepen participants' understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth.

Founded in 2020, QuareClare is a volunteer-led organisation with a mission to build a vibrant LGBTQIA+ community in Clare.

The organisation’s vision is to create and promote the conditions in which the LGBTQIA+ community in county Clare feels accepted, respected, and valued. 

The workshop in March will begin with an exploration of LGBTQ+ and Gender 101 and will delve into commonly used identities like pansexual and non-binary, as well as differentiating between gender identity, attraction, gender expression, and sex.

The free workshop will equip attendees with information on the supports and resources available to both young people, their parents, and those working with youth. 

Parent-youth communication will be a key topic, addressing identified barriers and presenting effective strategies such as active listening, staying positive, and promoting open-mindedness. The importance of finding accurate information and creating a safe space within the family home will be emphasised.

Orla Vaughn, QuareClare's education committee chair, said: "Education is pivotal to fostering inclusivity and understanding within our community. This workshop is a significant step towards creating safer and more supportive environments for LGBTQIA+ youth in county Clare."

This workshop is generously funded by the Healthy Clare Micro Fund which is supported by the Department of Health's Healthy Ireland Fund, Pobal and Creative Ireland Clare.