Exciting programme of events planned for Clare Pride 2023

CLARE Pride 2023, a week-long celebration of unity, inclusivity, and love taking place will begin this coming Monday with a variety of events due to take place in Ennis and Kilrush.

The event has been organised by QuareClare, Clare's LGBTQIA+ advocacy organisation and this year's theme, "Stand Up, Stand Out, Stand Proud," emphasises the importance of coming together and celebrating our unique identities while promoting acceptance and unity.

The highlight of Clare Pride 2023 is the inaugural "Pride March for Unity," a historic event that will wind its way through the streets of Ennis on Saturday, September 23.

The Pride March for Unity, which will be led by the iconic Ennis Brass Band, will culminate in front of Glor, where an exciting Open Day will unfold. Featuring music, entertainment, and a diverse array of businesses and organisations dedicated to the values of inclusivity and diversity, this Open Day is a testament to the strength of our community and the importance of coming together in celebration.

Following the Open Day, the festivities continue with the Clare Pride Celebration hosted by the Triple Threat Performer and Ireland AM presenter Paul Ryder who is known for being a trailblazer in Dublin's LGBTQ+ community for nearly fourteen years.

The celebration will also include performances by The Circus Ponies, The Wild Geeze, and Miss Lavelle, which promises to be a highlight of Clare Pride 2023, offering a night of fabulous entertainment and empowerment for all.

QuareClare and Clare Pride are thankful for the support of Clare County Council, which has demonstrated its commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community by promoting diversity and inclusion throughout Clare.

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Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Cooney, commented: “I would like to wish the organisers of Clare Pride every success with this year’s festival. The Pride flag will be flying at Áras Contae an Chláir throughout the week as a show of support. Clare County Council is committed to inclusivity and diversity in line with our equality and human rights public sector duty. I encourage everyone in Clare to show their support for Clare Pride and check out the programme of events and activities.”

At the heart of Clare Pride is QuareClare, an organisation dedicated to promoting LGBTQIA+ visibility and acceptance in Clare. QuareClare's mission is to create a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies.

Chris Koble, Chair of QuareClare and Co-Chair of Clare Pride 2023, said: "Clare Pride 2023 is more than a celebration; it's a powerful statement of unity, a celebration of love, and a testament to the strength of the LGBTQIA+ community in Clare.  It embodies our commitment to fostering unity and celebrating diversity throughout Clare. It's a joyful affirmation of love and acceptance, creating space for individuals to express their authentic selves boldly. This week’s events are centred around a powerful message: our voices are heard, our identities are celebrated, and together, we forge a path towards a more inclusive and understanding future."

For more information about Clare Pride 2023 and QuareClare, click here.