Dublin event to mark 10 years since passing of marriage referendum

A series of events will mark the 10^th anniversary of the Marriage Referendum throughout May, culminating in the day-long event – What A Difference A Day Made – in Collins Barracks, Dublin on Saturday May 24^th.

This will be a free, day-long community celebration to mark the special occasion. The event will feature a vibrant lineup of performances, music, and talks, shining a spotlight on the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in the fight for equality.

A host of artists have been confirmed for the event, including live performances from Tolü Makay, Niamh Bury and Bobbi Arlo, alongside choral performances from Gloria, Choral Confusion, The Belle Harmonics, and Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus.

Attendees can also enjoy a lively céilí and a DJ set, as well as food trucks, making it a day full of joy, reflection, and unity. Over twenty LGBTQ+ community organisations will also be present on the day – offering an opportunity to connect or volunteer with the groups working on behalf of LGBTQ+ people across the country.

“On 22 May 2015, Ireland became the first country in the world to grant equal marriage rights to same-sex couples by a vote of the people. The 10-year anniversary of the remarkable result in the Marriage Referendum is an opportunity to thank the voters who voted yes in such large numbers to allow same sex couples to marry and to enjoy the constitutional protections for us and our families.

“It’s also an opportunity to thank all of our allies and the organisations who worked for that yes vote – including trade unions, civil society, community and human rights organisations, student unions and most importantly the 70 Yes Equality groups and LGBTIQ+ organisations across the country”, said Brian Sheehan, Co-Director of the Yes Equality campaign.

“The community-led event, open to everyone, on Saturday 24^th May will reflect on the joy and happiness that flowed from the marriage referendum. It will explore the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ communities now, especially in the face of rising hostility and unfinished legal protections in Ireland.”

“We were delighted to help the Marriage Referendum +10 committee organise this event,” said Jamie Kenny, Co-CEO of Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride “The world can seem a little hostile lately, so it’s important that we let our hair down and party, celebrating everything we’ve achieved. But it’s also a moment to recognise the work ahead, especially in standing up for our trans, non-binary, and intersex siblings. Our community has shown time and time again that when we come together, we can achieve incredible things. We stand up for one another, we celebrate together, and we support each other through every challenge. We’re optimistic, we’re hopeful, and we’re ready to keep pushing for equality for all. So, join us on May 24^th for a dance and be part of what comes next.”

The event is free to attend, however advance registration is essential. Register here.

The celebration has been organised by the team behind the Yes Equality Campaign.