Colaiste Mhuire is teaming up with Belong To to achieve the LGBTQ+ QMark.
· In September 2022, we embarked on a journey to create a welcoming and secure environment for LGBTQ+ students, staff, and our broader community. With assistance from Belong To and our school community, our goal is to encourage and nurture greater inclusivity regarding LGBTQI+ issues within both our school and the larger community. In November 2023, Belong To will visit our school to assess our progress in fostering this inclusive community, with the objective of obtaining the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark in the coming months.
· The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark is a program designed to endorse and certify LGBTQ+ Safe and Supportive Schools.
· In Ireland, a troubling 73% of LGBTQ+ young individuals have reported feeling unsafe at school. Nevertheless, research indicates that effective school-based initiatives can significantly enhance the lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ students.
What is an LGBTQ+ ally?
An LGBTQ+ ally is a person who supports and advocates for the rights, well-being, and equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. These allies are typically individuals who may not identify as LGBTQ+ themselves but are committed to promoting inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding of LGBTQ+ people in society.
The LGBTQ+ support group at Colaiste Mhuire goes by the name of Bród Club which means “Pride” in Irish.
Comprising both students and staff, we convene every Tuesday at 1.10pm for a range of activities, discussions, treats, and more. This safe and inclusive environment is open to all members of our school community, providing a welcoming space where individuals can freely express themselves and receive support. Here, our Allies and LGBTQ+ community members can come together to relax, converse, and interact with one another.