A row has broken out at the Urdd Eisteddfod in Carmarthenshire, Wales, over the introduction of the Cwiar Na Nog area, aimed at educating young people about the LGBTQ+ community. The Welsh-language youth festival, known for its celebration of music, literature, and performing arts, faced criticism from some quarters while receiving praise from others.
The Cwiar Na Nog area, housed within a vibrant tent, has been designated as a “safe space” for children and young people to socialize, network, and explore their identities through the medium of Welsh. Alongside various activities, the area offers pronoun badges, which have been embraced by Urdd staff and encouraged for wider adoption.
Supporters of the initiative, such as BBC weather forecaster and presenter Owain Wyn Evans, have lauded its potential to positively impact young lives. Reflecting on his own experiences, Evans stated, “If something like this existed when I was young, it would’ve changed my life completely… it shows it’s OK to be gay, it’s OK to be LGBT.” The launch of the Cwiar Na Nog area coincided with the start of Pride Month, amplifying the significance of this inclusive endeavor.
However, the move has faced opposition, with critics expressing concerns over the appropriateness of discussing LGBTQ+ topics in a youth festival setting. Comments on social media have ranged from questioning the need for such education to outright rejection, labeling the initiative as “stupid,” “disappointing,” and “disgraceful.”
Women’s group Merched Cymru has voiced support for efforts to combat sexism, homophobia, and gender stereotypes, but raised concerns about the focus on pronouns. Emphasizing the importance of allowing children to freely express themselves without conforming to restrictive gender norms, the group cautioned against promoting an excessive preoccupation with pronouns, which they argue detracts from the holistic understanding of child development.
Education Minister Jeremy Miles, however, expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing its direct response to the requests of young people in Wales. He highlighted the principles of inclusion and equity, asserting that wearing a pronoun badge is a personal choice that contributes to fostering a more positive and accepting environment.
Urdd Gobaith Cymru, the organization behind the youth movement and Eisteddfod, responded to the criticism by reaffirming its commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and expressing disappointment over offensive remarks. The Urdd emphasized the importance of inclusivity and openness, stating that the aim is to provide support and a safe space for all young people.
As the debate surrounding the Cwiar Na Nog area continues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions and challenges faced in promoting acceptance and understanding within society. The Urdd Eisteddfod, a platform for youthful expression and creativity, finds itself at the center of this conversation, reflecting both the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in creating a truly inclusive world.
