About
To stigmatise a person is to regard them as shameful. Stigma can be inflicted on us by others but can also be assumed by ourselves. Stigma so often originates from a false belief. A belief that generates fear, fear generates ignorance and prejudice. There can be no more powerful method of overcoming stigma then laughter.
Hence Mad Pride Ireland Family Fun Days. No protests, no leaflets, no information stands, simply fun for all the family. We will engage with difference as a normality, celebrate that difference in a space that gives dignity to difference, by not addressing it at all, simply allowing it to be (just that different).
A space which allows us all to embrace each other, in peace, with love,
through laughter. We give you music, poetry, art, beauty yet we are stigmatised unto death. We need society to wake up to its responsibility towards us by taking pride in our responsibility towards ourselves, Mad Pride Ireland aims through family fun days to create that space. Statistically we are the most peaceful members of society yet we are the most feared, we must change that perception. We can do that through laughter, fun, through Mad Pride. John McCarthy
What does Mad Pride Ireland do?
We believe that the best way to promote understanding of the issues surrounding mental health is to engage the community through active participation in a fun environment. We do that by hosting family events that are inclusive, fun and suitable for children, teenagers, adults and families. These events do not bombard people with pamphlets extolling the virtues of one approach over another. Rather they show the world that madness is an everyday occurrence that affects us all and can be dealt with openly, lovingly and without stigma
What does a Mad Pride Ireland event consist of?
We host events with diverse programmes that are tailored to suit the local community. Every Mad Pride event has a good deal of silliness, ridiculousness, colour and fun as well as:
Clown normality testing
(clowns patrol the entrances - with rubber chicken normality detectors - to the event checking people for signs of normality. Those showing symptoms are not allowed in. As there is no such thing as normal everyone gets in)
Live music
Street theatre shows
Family games
Children’s activities
Food and craft market
