Campaign launched to stop LGBT hate crime

A NORTHSIDE TD said no one should ever feel threatened or at risk because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Minister of State for New Communities, Culture and Equality, Aodhan Ã? Ríordáin, was speaking at the recent launch of Gay and Lesbian Equality Network’s (GLEN)

‘Stop Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Hate Crime’ campaign.

The campaign encourages people to report LGBT hate crimes and incidents directly to the gardaí and to log incidents they witness or experience at www.stophatecrime.ie.

“If someone does feel that they are a victim of LGBT hate crime, or indeed any hate crime, then it is imperative that they report this matter to the gardaí,

? said Minister Ã? Ríordáin.

“It is only when we record these incidents and have an accurate data map of when, how and where they happen that we can effectively tackle this issue.

?

Also speaking at the campaign launch, Nathalie Weadick, co-chair of GLEN, said there has been great progress in Ireland for LGBT people over the last decade.

“However, despite this progress, LGBT people still experience alarming levels of violence and harassment, simply because of who they are,

? said Ms Weadick.

“Fear, self-censorship and excessive caution should not be part of the daily reality for many LGBT people.

“Whether at school, at home or in public, LGBT people should be able go about their daily lives with the same sense of security that others enjoy.

?

The campaign also highlights the range of support services available for LGBT people who experience harassment or violence.