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福利1000在线 College Cork launches Ireland鈥檚 first university LGBT+ Action Plan
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A landmark initiative advancing inclusion in higher education.
福利1000在线 College Cork (UCC) launched Ireland鈥檚 first LGBT+ Action Plan in a higher education institution, highlighting the university鈥檚 ongoing commitment to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion.
The Together with Pride: LGBT+ Action Plan 2026鈥�2028 sets out a comprehensive and measurable roadmap to transform how LGBT+ inclusion is embedded across teaching, research, campus culture and institutional leadership. The initiative marks a significant step forward not only for UCC, but for the wider higher education sector in Ireland.
Building on more than four decades of LGBT+ activism and allyship at UCC, the plan introduces a structured framework for delivering systemic change across five strategic pillars - Foundation, Culture, Success, Growth and Engagement. These pillars will drive actions ranging from policy reform and inclusive curriculum development to expanded staff and student supports, strengthened research networks, and deeper community engagement.
Speaking at the launch, , President of UCC, said: 鈥淭he launch of this Action Plan is both an historic milestone and a clear expression of UCC鈥檚 ambition to lead in LGBT+ inclusion. It reflects our deep commitment to ensuring that every member of our university community feels valued, supported and empowered to succeed. Together, we are continuing to build a university where everyone truly belongs.鈥�
The Action Plan reinforces UCC鈥檚 role as a sectoral leader in embedding equality and inclusion into institutional practice.
Reflecting on the journey to this point, , former Co-Chair of the LGBT+ Staff Network (2022鈥�2025), said: 鈥淭his Action Plan reflects decades of activism, advocacy and solidarity within UCC. We remember with gratitude the bravery of early activists, who spoke out at a time when homosexuality was still criminalised. As a community, we have worked consistently to advance visibility, equality and belonging, and this plan builds on that legacy to ensure lasting inclusion for future generations.鈥�
Looking ahead, , current Co-Chair of the LGBT+ Staff Network (2023鈥�2025), added: 鈥淎t a time of rising anti-LGBT+ discourse and violence globally, it is more important than ever that institutions take meaningful and sustained action. This plan sets out a clear path forward for UCC, embedding LGBT+ inclusivity across all aspects of university life and ensuring continued progress into the future.鈥�
The plan was developed through an extensive and inclusive consultation process involving staff, students and external partners, ensuring that it reflects lived experience and community priorities.
Dr Avril Hutch, Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at UCC, emphasised the plan鈥檚 delivery focus: 鈥淭his plan is about embedding inclusion in practice, not just principle. By setting out clear actions, defined responsibilities and measurable outcomes, it ensures that LGBT+ inclusion is actively progressed, monitored and strengthened across every part of the university.鈥�
The launch event brought together staff, students and partners to mark this milestone and reaffirm a shared commitment to fostering a university community where LGBT+ people are visible, valued and celebrated.