Ireland’s first LGBTQ+ barbershop and salon has opened in Dublin.
Queer Hawk in Temple Bar is the brainchild of Irish-Brazilian couple Thiago Mulligan and Kiro Rodrigues, who are on a mission to provide an environment where everyone feels respected, safe, happy, free and included. They said their business is a space that is dedicated to the care and wellbeing of all clients, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
In an interview with GCN, Rodrigues said the idea for the business came about when they spoke to others in their circle and discovered there was “a need for a space that is, in its essence, kind of non-binary and that doesn’t discriminate”.
The name Queer Hawk comes from the Irish slang term ‘quare hawk’, which refers to someone who is a bit unusual or eccentric. “It’s a lighthearted way of describing someone who stands out in their own unique way,” explained Rodrigues.
According to the couple, the response so far has been hugely positive, especially from the trans and non-binary community. “People are coming from far and wide, which reassures us that we’re doing the right thing, that we’re on the right track and that we’re providing a service that was needed,” said Rodrigues.
“Queer Hawk is not only a barbershop and salon,” added Mulligan. “We want this space to be a community space, so people can come here only for coffee and chats if they want.”
