The day before the anniversary, on Wednesday 20 November, Irish in Britain participated in a workshop organised by Professor Gavin Schaffer (Manchester Metropolitan University) and Maureen Slattery-Marsh (Birmingham Irish Association) supported by the Irish government’s Reconciliation Fund.
Irish in Britain CEO Brian Dalton and Policy and Research Manager Rosa Gilbert presented on the 50th anniversary oral history project and exhibition Look Back to Look Forward, playing clips from the oral histories that gave an insight into the impact of the Troubles on Irish people in Britain.
They spoke about the impact of the aftermath of the Birmingham pub bombings on the Irish community and some of the experiences of discrimination and hostility that interviewees recounted.
They also highlighted the importance of living testimony in educating new generations, connecting us to time and place in the purpose of healing and as a way of sharing experiences.
The event also featured moving contributions from the Tim Parry and Jonathan Ball Foundation in Warrington, Michael O’Hare from TTTNI, Jo Berry (Founder: Building Bridges for Peace) and Corrymeela Community NI.
It was a chance for those affected by the Troubles, and those working within peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives, to come together, share reflections and best practice.
It was a privilege to hear the personal testimonies that day and a poignant reminder that Troubles-related trauma is not limited to those living in Northern Ireland, but across these islands.