PHA – flying the flag at Foyle Pride 2012

The Public Health Agency (PHA) will be helping to launch Foyle Pride 2012 celebrations tonight (10 August) in Cafe Solo, Guildhall Square, where a new comic art book, challenging homophobia, and the ‘silk flags’ project will be unveiled. 

Speaking at the launch, Brendan Bonner, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement (West), PHA, said: “We are delighted to be part of Foyle Pride 2012 as part of our commitment to an inclusive and respectful society.

“We understand the challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, eg social inclusion, living free from fear of violence or intimidation, access to support services, lifestyle choices and the impact these can have on physical and emotional wellbeing, and we work in partnership on a number of initiatives to tackle these issues.

“We are really pleased to present two new projects at Foyle Pride 2012, raising awareness of the LGBT community and its rich contribution to the city and region. The Comic Art Book is an educational tool, raising awareness of homophobia and the positive steps society can take against it. Along with ‘Silk Flags’ whose quality, colour and durability reflect the vibrancy and values the LGBT community bring to the city, these are signs of positive inclusion in the future.”

‘Silk Flags’ is part of the 'Extraordinary People’s Project', a unique partnership between Public Health and City of Culture 2013. It uses art, culture, recreation and leisure to engage with communities in the city who would not otherwise feel part of the City of Culture process and who experiences the greatest inequalities in health and social wellbeing.

For further information on health and social wellbeing improvement, visit the PHA website at www.publichealth.hscni.net

Foyle Pride Festival 2012 ‘Exploring Identity’ takes place from 22-26 August; more information can be found at: www.foylepridefestival.com