Dr Michael Barron delivered the School of Social Work and Social Policy’s Annual Lecture on 2 April 2026, presenting a timely reflection on LGBTQ+ activism in Ireland through his talk, “Queer Optimism in Hard Times: Memory, Power and the Future of Community-Led Change.” Drawing on more than 30 years of experience across civil society, government, and international organisations, Michael focused on how communities pushed to the margins build power and shape public policy. He argued that the progress we’ve seen was not inevitable. It was organised, contested, and led by communities who refused to be spoken for.

Referencing his book, How Ireland’s LGBTQ+ Youth Movement Was Built: Civil Society in the Pursuit of Social Justice, Barron reflected on the role of self-organised communities in driving change in Irish law and policy. He shared both personal and collective learning, examining what helped build power, where compromises were made, and what might be done differently in the future.

At the centre of his talk was the idea that minority communities need space, resources, and confidence to advocate for themselves. He warned that when this space is weakened through funding pressures, institutional capture, or the reshaping of agenda something essential is lost.

Barron also highlighted the current context, noting that anti-LGBTQ+ narratives are becoming more organised and normalised, while disinformation continues to shape public debate. Against this backdrop, he posed critical questions about sustaining community power, supporting new activists, and maintaining a sense of possibility.The lecture concluded with a panel discussion featuring artist and activist Megan Atkinson, Professor Emeritus Maurice Devlin,  Maynooth University, Ruadhán Ó Críodáin, ShoutOut and Senator Lynn Ruane.