1 in 5 people who identify as LGBTI+ have been physically attacked because of their sexuality. 1 in 3 gay men have been punched, hit or physically attacked in public.

‘Rainbow Blood’ ran at the end of Pride month in Ireland acting as a message of support after a string of hate crimes and vulgar homophobic graffiti darkened the festival celebrations. One example was the homophobic graffiti which appeared in Dublin city overnight. It showed the words ‘pedo bar’ painted on the wall and an arrow pointing in the direction of Pantibar, a well-known and well-loved gay bar.

‘Rainbow Blood’ reminded us just how important it is to celebrate Pride and continue to support the LGBTI+ community and LGBTI+ youth charities such as BeLonG To Youth Services. We need Pride until everyone can truly feel equal and safe in Irish society. A future that is hopefully somewhere over the rainbow.