Author: Xiomara Aguirre (they/she | siad/sí) | Pride Events Coordinator, Scouting Ireland
On Saturday 27 June, Scouts from across Ireland gathered at the DCC Wood Quay Amphitheatre to take part in Dublin Pride.
The day began with Belong To’s breakfast and pre-event gathering. BeLonG To is Ireland’s national LGBTQ+ youth organisation, supporting LGBTQ+ young people through youth work, education, research, and advocacy. Young people, adult volunteers, youth workers, and community organisations came together before the parade, creating a brilliant atmosphere from the outset, with flags, face paint, conversation, and plenty of excitement as everyone prepared for the day ahead.
At around 10:30 am, we gathered our Scouts and made our way towards O’Connell Street for the main parade through the city. The energy was incredible. Youth members were excited to receive their Scouting Ireland Pride items, take photos, and be part of such a visible and positive moment for inclusion in Scouting.
And then we were off.
We marched together in uniform, with cheers from the public lining the streets. The Scouting Ireland Progress Pride flag was carried proudly alongside our Tricolour (Ár Trídhathach), and a range of identity flags were lifted with pride, care, and solidarity throughout the march.
There was a real sense of joy throughout. We waved flags, joined in chants, and celebrated what it means for Scouting Ireland to show up publicly in support of LGBTQIA+ members, volunteers, families, and allies.
By early afternoon, we arrived at Merrion Square for the Pride Village, grateful for a chance to sit down, have something to eat, and take in the rest of the day. Afterwards, members had time to enjoy the Pride Village before groups made their way home.
I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to serve as Scouting Ireland’s Pride Events Coordinator, supported by an amazing team and by colleagues across Safeguarding, Programme, and EDI. Being able to march in celebration of LGBTQIA+ inclusion, as Scouts, was a deeply meaningful experience.
I am especially proud of the youth members who took part. Their enthusiasm, confidence, and openness continue to inspire me every day.
Pride Month may be over, but our commitment to inclusion does not end there. Every young person and adult volunteer should feel welcome, respected, and able to be themselves in Scouting Ireland all year round.
We hope to build on this momentum and support future Pride participation in places such as Belfast, Cork, Galway, and Roscommon.
Let’s keep marching forward for Scouting.
