BeLonG To, the national organisation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) young people, has welcomed Justin McAleese’s call for a ‘yes’ vote in the forthcoming marriage referendum.

Belong To

Commenting today (18.04.15), Michael Barron, Founding Director of BeLonG To, said: “Justin’s mother, Mary, has been a long-term supporter of BeLonG To, and we are very grateful for the backing she has given our organisation down through the years.

“Justin has now spoken publicly about his experience of coming out and his very personal motivation for asking people to vote ‘yes’ on 22nd May.  His words are brave and inspiring, and I have no doubt they will provide comfort and hope for young people throughout the country who are feeling isolated because of their sexuality.

“Securing marriage equality is hugely important for LGBT young people, in particular,” continued Mr. Barron.  “The thousands of young people we work with consider this one of the biggest human rights issues for their generation.  Too many LGBT young people experience bullying and discrimination growing up.  They know they don’t enjoy equal rights, and this increases their sense of injustice and isolation.  A ‘yes’ vote would send a powerful signal to them that they are cherished by this State in the exact same way as all citizens, and that homophobic bullying and rejection are not acceptable.

“I commend Justin McAleese for publicly speaking of his own experiences and calling for a ‘yes’ vote in the forthcoming referendum.  By speaking to family members, friends, neighbours and colleagues about why we are voting ‘yes’, we can all play an important role in ensuring a favourable outcome.”

BeLonG To is spearheading the largest coalition of youth organisations supporting a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum – under the BeLonG To YES banner.  Organisations involved include the ISPCC, Barnardos, Foróige, Youth Work Ireland, the Migrant Rights Centre, Headstrong, Yes Equality, the Children’s Rights Alliance, Pavee Point and EPIC, as well as BeLonG To.

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