A Donegal man has created a documentary highlighting LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport in Ireland, while also sharing some of his own personal experiences.
Burt native Domhnaill Harkin is the creator and presenter of the documentary, named Playing with Pride, which has been released online via the ShoutOut organisation.
Domhnaill is a volunteer with ShoutOut and a member of their Steering Committee, and the documentary was inspired by his personal experiences growing up in Donegal.
“Growing up in rural Donegal, I never felt welcomed in sporting environments,” Domhnaill said.
“As I grew older and realised I was gay and struggled to accept my sexuality, this feeling only intensified. After I came out, I found that many other LGBTQ+ people felt the same way about Sport. I wanted to find out what has changed and what still needs to change, so that all LGBTQ+ people feel welcome in sporting environments. This is where the idea of the documentary came from.”
Meanwhile Ruadhán Ó Críodáin, the Executive Director at ShoutOut says the documentary emphasises the importance of inclusion for LGBTQI+ people, particularly trans people, within sporting spaces.
“Sport is still the last frontier for LGBTQI+ inclusion, particularly for trans athletes. With this documentary we wanted to highlight the human stories of LGBTQI+ players, to shine a light on the exclusion which persists for LGBTQI+ people, and celebrate LGBTQI+ athletes who are overcoming barriers in their sports,” Ruadhán said.
Playing with Pride delves into the personal stories of LGBTQI+ individuals who are active members of the Sports world in Ireland, offering a poignant look at their experiences. Through interviews with athletes and club representatives, including Jack Dunne, former Leinster Rugby player, who now plays for the Exeter Chiefs, along with representatives from LGBTQ+ specific teams and orgs: Na Gaeil Aeracha GAA club, Emerald Warriors RFC and Sporting Pride, the documentary examines both the progress made and the hurdles still faced in fostering an environment where everyone can compete and thrive without fear of discrimination.
You can view the documentary on YouTube here:
