The Rainbow Project launches waiting list for LGBTQIA+ Irish language classes following overwhelming demand

The Rainbow Project has launched a waiting list for its Queer As Gaeilge Irish language programme after its first six-week beginner course sold out in less than two hours.

The free course, delivered from The Rainbow Project’s Foyle Hub at Waterloo House in Derry/Londonderry, was created to provide LGBTQIA+ people and allies with an opportunity to learn Irish in an inclusive, welcoming and community-focused environment.

Designed for complete beginners and those looking to refresh their existing language skills, the programme aims to create a relaxed space where participants can build confidence in speaking Irish while connecting with others from across the LGBTQIA+ community. 

The six-week course is being delivered by a volunteer facilitator who is also a service user of The Rainbow Project. Their willingness to share their time, skills and passion for the Irish language has helped make the programme possible and reflects the strong sense of community that exists within LGBTQIA+ spaces across Northern Ireland.

The overwhelming response to the initial course has highlighted a growing interest in accessible Irish language learning opportunities within LGBTQIA+ communities across Northern Ireland.

In response, The Rainbow Project is now opening a waiting list to gauge interest in future courses and explore opportunities to expand the programme to reach more people across the region.

Rossa Smallman, Youth & Adult officer at The Rainbow Project, said:

“We knew there would be interest in the course, but we were genuinely surprised by how quickly the first programme filled up. To see all available places taken within two hours shows there is a real appetite for opportunities like this within our community.

“Queer As Gaeilge is about more than just learning a language. It’s about creating space for people to come together, make connections and engage with Irish language and culture in a way that feels welcoming, inclusive and accessible.

“We’re now opening a waiting list so we can better understand the level of demand and explore how we might develop further opportunities in the future.”

The six-week programme welcomes adult learners of all backgrounds, whether they are taking their first steps in learning Irish or looking to brush up on skills they may not have used for many years.

Those interested in joining future Queer As Gaeilge courses are encouraged to register their interest through The Rainbow Project.

Register your interest for a space below