Cork, Ireland is set to become the first city outside the United States to host a piece of the original Gilbert Baker Rainbow Flag, in what organisers are describing as a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ history and heritage.
A large fragment of the original Pride flag, created by artist and activist Gilbert Baker in 1978, will go on public display at Cork Public Museum from this week following a loan agreement with the GLBT Historical Society in San Francisco.
The artefact, which was donated to the California-based organisation in 2021, has never before been exhibited outside the US.
A delegation from San Francisco is due to arrive in Cork on Thursday to mark the opening of the four-month exhibition, which forms part of a wider programme celebrating LGBTQ+ history, inclusion and community development.
Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Damian Boylan said the visit represented an opportunity to strengthen ties between the Irish city and its long-standing twin city across the Atlantic.
“The Gilbert Baker Flag visit provides a unique opportunity to deepen relationships between Cork and San Francisco while showcasing Cork’s commitment to equality, inclusion and community engagement,” he said.
“Through the range of civic events, activities and networking events planned around the flag’s arrival, the programme will celebrate the achievements of LGBTI+ communities while acknowledging the ongoing work required to create safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces for all.”
Chief Executive of Cork City Council Valerie O’Sullivan described the exhibition as a “tremendous honour” for the city.
“This historic visit reflects Cork’s long-standing commitment to equality, inclusion and human rights, and highlights the strong and enduring relationship between Cork and San Francisco,” she said.
The exhibition also shines a spotlight on Cork’s place in Irish LGBTQ+ history. The city hosted the first National Gay Conference in 1981 and saw the first trade union motion supporting LGBT workers’ rights passed in 1982. Other milestones include the publication of Ireland’s first AIDS information leaflet in 1984, the country’s first LGBT film festival in 1991 and the first LGBT float to take part in a St Patrick’s Day parade anywhere in the world in 1992.
Roberto Ordeñana, executive director of the GLBT Historical Society, said the loan reflected a commitment to making LGBTQ+ history accessible beyond national borders.
“As stewards of the original Rainbow Flag, created in 1978, we are entrusted with preserving its history and increasing greater awareness of its legacy,” he said.
“The Rainbow Flag’s importance extends far beyond any one museum, city or nation. Our shared history belongs to all of us, regardless of borders.”
He added that the collaboration demonstrated global solidarity at a time when LGBTQ+ communities, particularly transgender people, face growing challenges in many parts of the world.
The visit coincides with the opening of Cork Public Museum’s first permanent LGBTQ+ archive exhibition, featuring material documenting more than 40 years of the city’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history.
A week-long programme of events running from 17 - 24 August has been organised to celebrate the flag’s arrival and highlight Cork’s contribution to LGBTQ+ activism, culture and community life.
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