One hundred years ago the Proclamation of Independence called for the unity of people in Ireland.
“The Irish Republic is entitled to, and hereby claims, the allegiance of every Irishman and Irishwoman.”
It was written with the intent to inspire people to action, to fight for independence and instill a sense of togetherness. It called for democracy, for “civil liberty, equal rights and equal opportunities”.
It did so to “pursue the happiness and prosperity of the whole nation.”
We’ve made strides.
But 100 years in and we still have a long way to go to achieve full equality, civil liberty and equal rights.
Today is the day that the Department of Education and celebrants of the anniversary of The Easter Rising have allocated to unveiling a host of Proclamations for a New Generation, written by students from all over the country. The students were invited to share their ideas, their pledges and their goals to create a new vision for Ireland, inspired by that written 100 years ago.
“We also proclaim a new, kind society where all people can be who they want to be without judgement or violence. We guarantee that all citizens will have this freedom”.
The above quote was taken from a Proclamation written by a National School in Gorey.
And while yes, that statement may simply be a line completed on a primary school worksheet, it serves as a stark reminder that we still have mountains to climb in the pursuit of full equality and civil liberty.
Full civil liberty will only be a reality when we repeal the 8th amendment.
So how do we do it?
Unlike the Proclamation that inspired a revolution, we’re struggling to find the exact words to place the 8th amendment on the political agenda. We’ve added our voices to the conversations many times.
But now we need to take it further.
Here’s our proclamation:
We promise to keep this issue on the media agenda.
We promise to build a movement.
We promise to add your voice.
Our next #HerTalks event is on the 30th of March in the Project Arts Centre. We will feature key speakers on the issue of abortion and reproductive rights. We need you to come to add your voice, to tweet your support, to share your stories and to fight for your rights.
Together, in unity, we can see the 8th amendment repealed and the introduction of safe and legal abortion accessible to all women in this country.
Tickets are free. To secure a place email [email protected]
