# Campaign Update: Taking the Fight to Government

Firstly, thank you to every single person who has signed and shared our petition to save the first Permanent Pride Rainbow Crossing in the Republic of Ireland.

Your support has sent a powerful message that visibility, inclusion, and equality matter.

I want to let you know that this campaign has now entered a new phase.

Wicklow Pride® Foundation has formally stepped up its efforts to protect the Permanent Pride Rainbow Crossing in Arklow from being erased and to secure the future of the additional Permanent Pride Rainbow Crossings that were approved by elected members of Wicklow County Council but have yet to be installed.

As a Director of Wicklow Pride® Foundation, I, together with our team, have begun directly engaging with Government Ministers and senior decision-makers in an effort to find a constructive solution.

We have now formally requested meetings with:

• Tánaiste Simon Harris

• Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley

• Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy and Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien

Our objective is simple: to find a practical solution that protects the existing crossing in Arklow, respects the principles of inclusion and equality, and allows the additional approved crossings across County Wicklow to proceed.

We believe there is a way forward.

This campaign has never been about paint on a road. It has always been about what the crossing represents. The Permanent Pride Rainbow Crossing in Arklow is a symbol of visibility, belonging, acceptance, and community support. For many LGBTQIA+ people, especially young people, it sends a clear message that they are welcome, valued, and included.

We are determined to ensure that message is not lost.

Over the coming weeks, we will continue engaging with elected representatives, Ministers, public bodies, and supporters. We will also share updates with you as responses are received and meetings take place.

In the meantime, there is something important you can do.

Please continue sharing this petition and encourage friends, family members, colleagues, and allies to sign it. If you feel comfortable doing so, consider writing to your local TDs, Senators, Councillors, and Ministers asking them to support the campaign to save Ireland's first Permanent Pride Rainbow Crossing and to support the installation of the additional crossings already approved by elected representatives.

Together, we have already shown that people care deeply about inclusion and equality. With your continued support, we can ensure that the voices behind this campaign are heard loud and clear.

Thank you for standing with us.

Dave Thomas

Director

Wicklow Pride® Foundation www.wicklowpride.eu