Local LGBTQ+ activist nominated for national volunteer award
A Mullingar LGBTQ+ and anti-racism activist has been nominated for a national award.
Christine O'Mahony, founder of the Mullingar 4 All group, has been shortlisted for a Volunteer Ireland Award in the Campaigning and Activism category.
On its website, Volunteer Ireland explained why Christine, who was one of the organisers of the recent pro-Palestine protests in Mullingar, was selected for the shortlist.
“Over the past three years, Christine O’Mahony has been a leading voice in advocating for the marginalised, underserved, and invisible members of society. Her work spans both in person and online activism. Her organisation Mullingar 4 All aims to discredit fascist and hateful media. By breaking down the lies and changing the narrative about refugees and queer people, she also inspires people to educate themselves about diversity and to challenge assumptions about others that are so prevalent today.
“Christine is a passionate advocate for ending homophobic harm that still lingers even in the face of progress. As a chairperson for the Anti Conversion Therapy Coalition, she works to educate and legislate against this physically, emotionally, and psychologically damaging practice. She also advocates strongly for the end of bisexual erasure to make sure that bisexuality in Ireland is visible, respected and accepted.
“Important to her activism is an understanding of how systems of hatred and power interlock. She is outspoken in the face of racism in higher education, transphobia in media, and uses her position to advocate for the colonised. Her campaigns have attracted the attention of many, including the institutions she has challenged, some of whom have invited her to meet with them to help them improve.”
Christine, who last month won the LGBTQ+ Young Trailblazer award at the LGBTQ+ GALAs (Gay and Lesbion Awards), isn't the only local activist in the running for a Volunteer Ireland award. Well known charity fundraiser Brian Fagan has been shortlisted in the Social Inclusion and Community category. The Volunteer Ireland Awards are taking place in Limerick on December 2.