The LGBT Youth Gathering was hosted by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Youth Work Service and LGBT Youth Scotland, from 23 to 25 July 2019.
THe Gathering brought together LGBT Young people and their allies from across Dumfries and Galloway to take part in a programme of keynote speakers, performances, personal development, mindfulness, social action, to celebrate the LGBT community.
The event returned to Dumfries following the successful LGBT National Gathering 2018 – a key element in maintaining the legacy from Year of Young People 2018, ensuring continued commitment towards local LGBT young people and their allies.
The breadth and depth of workshops and activities on offer was fantastic to see, and the gala evening was supported by a wide range of partners and prominent figures from across Scotland. The young people who made the weekend so special deserve the biggest shout out of all, as their enthusiasm and passion really made the weekend the event it was.
Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Young People’s Champion, Councillor Adam Wilson, said, “Our Council has once again delivered a fantastic event for our young people, celebrating the breadth of diversity in our region. Our Council is committed to the legacy from the Year of Young People 2018, and the LGBT Gathering is a key part of that. It was a privilege to see and hear some of the powerful journeys our young people have been on. Our Council will continue to stand up and support all minority groups.”
Lucy Forteath, who helped to organise the event, said: “The LGBT Gathering lets young people be who they want to be. It’s not something you would expect to happen in this area – it’s truly amazing. It’s important to have something like this in our local area so that young people feel accepted in their local community. It is also important that people can build connections and friendships with like-minded people.”
