Ireland has certainly shook off any perception of it being a traditionally conservative (Catholic) country with the result of last month's Marriage Equality Referendum. If you're part of the global LGBT community and haven't heard, Ireland has become the first country in the world - and amongst the twenty other countries where same-sex marriage is legally recognised - to get a majority 'YES' outcome by public vote. To have achieved this in just over 20 years, since homosexuality was decriminalised in 1993, is without doubt transformational and progressive. As the proactive 'YES Equality' campaign proclaims, Ireland is 'truly a nation of equals'. While there are still further steps to take to mainstream greater equality, the constitutional revision is a wonderful platform to advance diversity and difference in our increasingly pluralistic society - one that better embraces kinkier lifestyles and fetishism.
Running parallel to this momentous occasion occurring in Ireland was our fellow Leatherman, Kevin Murphy, the winner of Mr Leather Ireland, competing at this year's IML in Chicago. It was a huge success for our fellow Irish Leatherman to be runner up in the competition. Let's hear from the man himself: "Coming First Runner Up IML was actually my third victory of that weekend. First came the same-sex marriage victory, and just before taking my place on the podium I proposed to my partner on stage, in front of 1500 people, and he said yes :-) What does this mean for the leather and fetish community in Ireland? It means that not only has Ireland established itself as somewhere that has an emerging and exciting kink scene, but also as one that is welcoming to all LGBT people. The referendum was historic globally, and at IML attention couldn't help but be drawn to our country. Hopefully many of them will visit and experience our leather and fetish community in the flesh (or in their leathers, as the case may be...). Ireland is often considered a dream destination because of its history, both real and mythological. That weekend, with the referendum, in one grand gesture we managed to illustrate to the world that Ireland is not the conservative stereotype once thought; Ireland is welcoming to all and you can come be yourself. It also means a lot for us locally. Hopefully it will encourage more people to come out and join socially, in what has been created over the last few years. I'm looking forward to seeing how the year ahead takes shape!"
As if this wasn't enough for an Irish kinkster to celebrate in such a short period of time, GEARED Ireland also had its 2nd birthday party in Dublin in May. It was a night full of cake, kink and camaraderie! As a regular patron and huge supporter of GEARED Ireland, I am delighted they are into their third year of operation. Long may it continue to be an extremely welcoming event for all kinksters and a haven for leather men in Ireland, and beyond. If you're planning a visit Dublin in the future, ensure you check their events calendar and pack your leathers (other kink gear is available, but I would prefer to see you in leathers!)
This is the new Ireland, the new normal.
