Cork makes history hosting original 1978 Rainbow flag

Cork has made history becoming the first city in the world outside the US to host the original Gilbert Baker Rainbow Flag.

Cork City Council welcomed a delegation from San Francisco this week, who have loaned the flag, created in 1978, to Cork Public Museum for public display for four months, coinciding with the opening of Cork City Museum’s first permanent LGBT+ archive exhibition.

GLBT Historical Society executive director, Roberto Ordeñana, 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.

“This international collaboration reaffirms our commitment to keeping LGBTQ+ history visible and accessible to all and sharing global solidarity during a moment when the most vulnerable among our LGBTQ community face increased attacks and erasure all around the world.”

A week-long programme of events has been organised across Cork city, running until August 24, to celebrate the flag’s arrival.

Speaking earlier this week Lord Mayor Damian Boylan 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.”

Delegates will also visit the Rainbow Cities Network International Photography Exhibition, Bi+ Visibility and Pride, at Cork City Library, and attend a public panel discussion entitled The Gilbert Baker Flag: Safety and the LGBTI+ Community.

Micheál Smith, consul general, San Francisco, said: “The story of modern Ireland is, in many ways, the story of becoming a more open, confident, and inclusive society.

“San Francisco has long stood as a beacon. Cork and San Francisco are connected, not only by history, migration, and commerce, but by a shared belief that every person should be free to live authentically and with dignity.

“The transfer of the original Gilbert Baker Rainbow Flag is a powerful symbol of that connection.”