In a resolute display of solidarity, around 300 individuals congregated outside the Cork City Library last weekend. Their mission: to shield the library from the disruptive antics of approximately 100 far-right demonstrators who had convened under the banner of “Ireland Says No,” protesting the presence of LGBTQ+ literature on library shelves.
Defending Inclusivity and Diversity
Far-right protesters had already managed to shut down the Cork City Library on two previous occasions this year, citing their demand for the banning of LGBTQ+ books. These demonstrations led the Cork City Council to temporarily close the library, prioritizing the safety of its staff. However, on this particular Saturday, the library remained open to the public, thanks to the valiant efforts of counterprotesters from groups such as “Cork Says No to Racism” and “Cork Rebels for Peace.” They brandished Pride flags, raised their voices in song, and formed a protective barrier to prevent the “Ireland Says No” demonstrators from entering.
A Message of Inclusion
Trans+ Pride Cork co-founder Saoirse Mackin articulated the core goal of the day: “The main goal for today is that the library stays open, and the staff can go to work and not worry about being harassed.” Mackin emphasized that the choice of reading materials should ultimately rest with individuals and their parents, rather than a group seeking to erase a collection of books from existence.
A Unified Stand
Cork City Council member Mick Nugent underlined the significance of the day, stating, “It’s about equality, it’s about liberty, it’s about fraternity, and it’s about diversity. We’re supporting all communities that decided to make Cork their home.” The demonstration received support not only from Cork but also from across Ireland. Members of the Irish Writers Union affirmed their solidarity, recognizing that such attacks on libraries had been taking place across the country.
A Peaceful Stand for Equality
The demonstration remained largely peaceful, with both groups maintaining their distance. However, a confrontation arose when “Ireland Says No” protesters accosted a counterprotester in a wheelchair, who sought to counter their presence with an air horn. The situation required police intervention, leading to one arrest.
Despite the challenges, one speaker from “Cork Rebels for Peace” summed up the sentiment of the day: “It doesn’t matter how many times they come back. How many times we need to do this. Because we will never allow the far right to stand unopposed on our streets.” The resilience of the counterprotesters in the face of adversity sent a powerful message of unity, inclusivity, and unwavering support for LGBTQ+ literature and communities in Cork and beyond.