Statement from Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre Regarding Violent Attacks in Citywest
Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre condemns the violent and racist attacks that took place in Citywest last night. We stand in solidarity with all those targeted and terrorised by these acts of hatred and intimidation, especially people seeking international protection, refugees, and migrants who have already endured so much.
We are deeply saddened and angered by these events. Many in our community, including those living in or connected to accommodation centres, have been left feeling frightened, anxious, and unsafe. The images and reports emerging have caused real distress, reopening wounds of uncertainty and fear that no one should have to carry.
We know that incidents of violence are often inflamed and manipulated by those who seek to spread racism, xenophobia, and division. Time and again, we see how rumours and isolated events are used to justify collective punishment and attacks against people of colour, migrants, and those seeking safety; people who are too often made scapegoats for deeper societal problems. These violent protests do not represent concern for safety or justice; they represent the deliberate targeting of the vulnerable.
To everyone feeling unsafe or afraid right now: you are not alone. You are part of a community that stands with you in solidarity, in care, and in defiance of hate. Outhouse will always be a place where you are seen, respected, and valued.
If you are living in or travelling near Citywest and the surrounding areas, please take care. Avoid areas where tensions are high, check in with trusted friends or community contacts, and reach out for support if you need it. If you are affected by these events and need a safe space to talk, connect, or take a breath, Outhouse is here for you.
We reject the hate, misinformation, and fear that fuel racist and xenophobic violence. Violence and intimidation have no place in our society. The Ireland we believe in is one rooted in care, courage, and solidarity, not suspicion or blame.
As LGBTQ+ people, we know how dangerous it is when hate and misinformation are allowed to grow unchecked. We refuse to let fear divide us. We are calling for decisive leadership from the Government, including the Minister for Justice, to confront the rising tide of racial violence and stand firmly for Ireland’s values of dignity, fairness, and compassion.
Our leaders must not enable hate through silence or appeasement. They must act now to ensure all who seek protection in Ireland are met with safety and solidarity. This means confronting the organised disinformation networks that weaponise fear and spread lies online, and demanding accountability from the social media platforms whose systems amplify hate for profit.
It also means addressing the root causes that far-right groups exploit – gender based violence, the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis, the cost of living, lack of access to healthcare, and a sense of insecurity that leaves people vulnerable to division. A society built on equality and safety for all cannot be achieved without tackling these systemic injustices head-on.
We extend our gratitude to the Gardaí and emergency services who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others during last night’s violence and prevent further harm. We send our best wishes for a full and speedy recovery to the Garda who was injured in the line of duty.
Even in dark moments, we see hope in the people who continue to respond with compassion, generosity, and courage. We urge everyone – individuals, communities, and institutions – to stand together, to speak truth against lies and misinformation, and to choose solidarity over scapegoating. That is the Ireland we believe in. An Ireland where everyone, regardless of background or identity, can live safely and with dignity.
If you are affected, please reach out to us. Outhouse is here to support you, always.
In hope and solidarity,
Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre