Ben Cohen Stands Against Homophobia & Bullying in Ireland
Rugby star joins politicians and activists at launch of 2012 anti-bullying campaign
Rugby champion and straight ally to the gay community Ben Cohen joined a host of international sporting stars, activists and politicians at the launch of Ireland's annual Stand Up! Awareness Week on Homophobic Bullying last night in Dublin City Hall.
Organised by BeLonG To Youth Services and supported by the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, the launch also featured the premiere showing of the new interactive Stand Up! advert.
Speaking at the event, Cohen said: 'I am delighted to be in Ireland supporting BeLonG To's world-class work to combat homophobic bullying of young people. This bullying can have devastating effects on young people's health and we just can't tolerate it anymore.
'All young people should be able to be themselves, whether it's in school, on the sports pitch, or at home. I urge everyone in Ireland to Stand Up! against homophobic bullying and to support BeLonG To's work, which in global terms, is leading the way in innovation and impact, making sure that LGBT young people are safe and supported.'
Cohen was joined by RuairĂ Quinn TD, Minister for Education and Skills and Donal Ă“g Cusack, Cork Hurling Captain at the event.
Quinn said of the campaign: ' I urge all post-primary school to participate in Stand Up! next week. Homophobic bullying can have very serious affects on young people's health and education.'
Now in its third year, the 2012 Stand Up! campaign will see nearly 2,000 secondary schools and youth organizations across Ireland receive educational packs containing information on anti-gay bullying for teachers, a DVD, posters and discussion guides which aim to help raise awareness of homophobia and promote tolerance.
Stand Up! Awareness Week on Homophobic Bullying runs from 5 -11 March.
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