St Fergal’s Rathdowney have become the first school in Laois to create a ‘safe space’ for the LGBTI+ community.
On Tuesday, they had the official launch of St Fergal’s College LGBTI+ Social Group which has been called the ‘Rainbow Flag’.
The driving force behind this initiative was Prefect Amy Wall who wanted to create a safe space for LGBTI+ students and Allies to meet and chat in a comfortable environment.
With huge support from management and staff, Amy together with the Amber Flag achieved this goal becoming the first school in Laois to create a safe space for this colourful crew.
The SPHE classes have had workshops facilitated by their teacher Ms Clodagh Kennedy who also encouraged the creativity of 1st and 2nd years to make the rainbow coloured origami stars that decorate the corridors, a gentle reminder to embrace this diversity in our school community while raising awareness to STAND UP! against Homophobic and Transphobic bullying.
The raising of the Rainbow Flag a familiar symbol for the LGBTI+ Community was a proud and historical moment for all.
St Fergal’s posted on their Facebook page: “Thanks to everyone who made today so special, to Ms Jessica O’Brien & the Amber Flag committee for all their support particularly Hannah Murphy, to our wonderful enchanting guests from Youth Work Ireland Laois – Clive and Elaine who also support our LGBTI + students outside of school.
“Their presence was fantastic encouragement that created a positive buzz for the event.
“All staff support this initiative and share the common goal of creating an all inclusive safe space for everyone and that positive mental health and well being of the entire school community is of utmost importance.
“Big shout out to Mary at the Cardstand for the balloons to help us decorate and to Deborah for that amazing cake.
“Finally to Ms Clodagh Kennedy for all her support and for helping to make this happen.”
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