Mayo Pride 'won't be intimidated' following protest

THE organisers of Mayo Pride say they won't be intimidated after protesters targeted an event in Westport at the weekend.

The seaside town was awash with colour and fun for the Mayo Pride Festival, which included the Pride Parade on Saturday. The main parade through Westport town was an explosion of colour and a celebration of inclusiveness and belonging. The parade had 400 people and was watched by 1,500 spectators.

However, an event at the Quay - Drag Storytime - held at Tertulia Bookshop, was the subject of a protest by people they described as 'far-right protesters'.

Mayo Pride issued the following statement on social media: 'Our Drag Storytime was targeted by far-right protesters on Saturday.

'Mayo Pride and Tertulia Bookshop were informed earlier in the week about far-right online groups who were planning to disrupt the event. Both Mayo Pride and Tertulia were subjected to violent threats and harassment.

'At the event itself, protesters behaved abusively towards LGBTQ+ teenagers, with some left in tears.'

The social media statement continued: 'Mayo Pride does not receive commercial funding and is run completely by hard-working volunteers.

'Mayo Pride will not be intimidated. We will run a full schedule of events again next year. 'If you’d like to support us, please donate now and share to get the word out! www.bit.ly/MayoPride.'

Organisers explained how Mayo Pride had a packed range of events, from a hike up Croagh Patrick to sold-out cabaret and club nights.

Mayo Pride stressed that the protest was organised nationally and not indicative of the warm and incredible welcome they received from Westport and the whole of Mayo.

'We are so grateful to the countless individuals and businesses who made the weekend so special.'