The Cork Public Museum has made history by opening Ireland’s first permanent LGBTQ exhibition, titled “We Were Always Here”. This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration with the Cork LGBT Archive aims to highlight the often overlooked history of the LGBTQ community in Cork. The exhibition, funded by Cork City Council the Heritage Council and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport is a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusivity and historical accuracy.
The exhibition not only marks a significant milestone in Irish cultural history but also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the opening of the first gay center in Cork. This center, established in 1976, was a beacon of support and solidarity for the LGBTQ community during a time when homosexuality was still illegal in Ireland. The exhibition traces the journey of the LGBTQ community through personal stories, historical documents, and artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of their struggles and triumphs.
The Significance of the Exhibition
The “We Were Always Here” exhibition is more than just a display of historical artifacts; it is a powerful statement of respect and inclusion. Orla Egan, the curator of the exhibition and founder of the Cork LGBT Archive emphasizes the importance of making the LGBTQ community’s history visible and accessible. “Too often the history of the LGBT community has been invisible, ignored or erased,” Egan states. “Having Cork’s LGBTQ history on display in the Cork Public Museum will ensure that it is accessible and cannot be forgotten or ignored.”
In an era where transphobia and homophobia are on the rise, this exhibition serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the progress that has been made. It sends a powerful message of respect and inclusion for a community that has too often experienced prejudice, punishment, and exclusion. The exhibition is a celebration of the activists who have created and continue to create social and cultural spaces, challenge prejudice, and bring about lasting social and political change.
Cork’s Pioneering Role in LGBTQ History
Cork has a rich history of being at the forefront of LGBTQ rights in Ireland. The city hosted the first National Gay Conference in 1981 and the first Irish Lesbian and Gay Film Festival in 1991. In 1992, Cork made history again by featuring the first LGBTQ float in a St Patrick’s Day parade a milestone that resonated globally. With the opening of this permanent exhibition, Cork continues its tradition of leadership in promoting LGBTQ rights and visibility.
Daniel Breen, the curator of the Cork Public Museum, highlights the museum’s evolution over the past 80 years. “The museum has often had to re-evaluate its exhibitions and collections to better reflect contemporary society and to better serve the people of Cork,” Breen notes. The museum’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its previous exhibitions on the Travellers community and the Cork Hebrew Congregation setting a precedent for the “We Were Always Here” exhibition.
The Original Rainbow Flag: A Global Symbol of Pride
Adding to the historical significance of the exhibition, Cork is the first city outside the United States to display the original Rainbow Flag also known as the Gilbert Baker Flag. Designed by activist and artist Gilbert Baker in 1978, the flag is a global symbol of LGBTI+ pride, visibility, inclusion, and equality. The flag, on loan to Cork for four months, will be displayed at the LGBT exhibition at the Cork Public Museum, further enhancing the exhibition’s global relevance.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Damian Boylan reflects on the city’s motto, “Statio Bene Fida Carinis” which translates to “A Safe Harbour for Ships.” Boylan emphasizes that Cork provides a safe harbour not just for ships but for people as well. “As we accept the Gilbert Baker flag and become its custodians for the next four months, we should pause for a moment and reflect on those words,” Boylan says. “Our city provides a safe harbour not just for ships, but for people too.”
The “We Were Always Here” exhibition is a testament to Cork’s commitment to inclusivity, historical accuracy, and the celebration of the LGBTQ community’s rich heritage. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance. The exhibition is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the vibrant and resilient history of the LGBTQ community in Cork.
