Ireland’s independent radio stations, including KCLR, will today (Friday) show their united support for the LGBTI+ community and BeLonG to youth services.
At 11:59am there’ll be a unique simultaneous broadcast to a combined daily listenership of 2.5 million people.
Each local, regional and national wireless will air a powerful 60-second spoken word performance piece titled ‘Rainbow Blood’ which has been written and performed by poet and performer Felicia Olusnaya, known as @felispeaks on Instagram.
The work involves a reimagining of iconic song ‘Over the Rainbow’ and is a reminder that, despite progress, members of the LGBTI+ community continue to experience discrimination, rejection and hate.
It came together when the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) was approached by Boys and Girls Entertainment Agency who have been responsible for many award-winning and critically acclaimed campaigns using radio. It’s in particular support of BeLonG To a LGBTI+ youth service that was co-founded by Glenmore, Kilkenny man Michael Barron.
The broadcast is a gesture of solidarity and support by independent radio and takes place on this date as June is Pride Month and is on the eve of the last Saturday in June which is traditionally the day that the annual Pride Parade takes place.
IBI Chairman and KCLR Chief Executive John Purcell says “We are delighted to work with Boys & Girls Creative Agency to bring the nation this powerful piece of radio which is sure to stop people in their tracks”.
He adds “@felispeaks is an amazing Irish writer and performer. Joined with independent Irish radio, which is a uniquely powerful medium for bringing people together, we’re proud to bring people this unique piece of audio which combines a powerful message with powerful delivery. It is sure to make a huge impact.”
