The purpose of this week was to increase awareness, friendship and support for LGBTI+ students by other students. Minister for Education and Skills Minister Bruton as well as Minster for Children and Youth Affairs Katherine Zappone launched the week and joined forces to Stand Up for LGBTI+ students across Ireland. This awareness week is in its eighth year and Minister Bruton is proud to be part of the launch for Stand Up Week 2017 in support of all students in second level education. He urged all second level schools to join this important initiative and to encourage students to stand up for their LGBTI+ friends. Minister Bruton expressed that by starting a conversation about LGBTI+ inclusivity at school where we are creating safe spaces for our students to learn.
This topic was covered in SPHE class in Junior Cycle during the week. On Friday, staff members wore a block rainbow colour of their choice and a staff photo was taken on the tennis courts at lunchtime to show staff standing up to support the LGBTI+ community.
Students showed their support also on Friday by wearing accessories in the rainbow colours or by using subtle face paint in the colours. Thanks to 3 Mac Donagh who initiated this and collected 1 Euro from all those who participated. This money will go toBeLonG To – the national organisation for LGBT young people, aged between 14 and 23.
