International Day against homophobia and transphobia (IDAHOT) was marked on Friday night by the Newry Rainbow Community (NRC) along with Changing Attitude Ireland, with a night of music and sacred prayer at St Catherine’s Dominican Chapel in Newry. It was the second year in a row for the event.

The event was led by Fr Stephen Tumilty with assistance from Fr Cesare Decio and Richard O’Leary, Changing Attitude Ireland was guest speaker. The music was led by Singer Songwriter Shane Morgan and Gerard Farrell on the guitar. Readers included Lesley Campbell, Nicola Doran, Martina Marks, John O’Donnell and Aaron Quigg.

The Dominican in Newry is the first Church in Ireland north or south to facilitate an event of this type.

Commenting on the event NRC member Columba O’Hare said “The night had everyone from teenager to pensioner taking part. It showed just how important their faith is to LGB and T people and the importance of feeling that they belong to a church (of whatever denomination) and are as welcome and respected as much as anyone else!”

IDAHOT Day is marked on the 17th of May as a worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversities.

At present 81 countries count same sex relationships as illegal and 10 of these countries apply the death penalty. This represents a total of 40% of world population!

Newry Rainbow Community have a drop in centre at 82 Hill Street in Newry for the local LGBT population and their friends and organise many different events throughout the year from walks to a monthly disco, book club, games night, mystery tour, team building, social events etc. You can contact them at 028 3025 0528 or email nrc@gaynewry.com or check www.gaynewry.com for up to date information.