This Easter Lasair Dhearg will commemorate the 1916 Easter Rising.
The Rising was one of the most pivotal events in our history when thousands of women and men went out to strike a blow for Irish freedom. Although the Rising was defeated it re-awakened people throughout the country and three years later many more Republicans took to cities and villages when the IRA embarked upon another struggle.
Both of these historical events are remembered by Republicans and Socialists in many graveyards with the reading of the Proclamation and The Democratic Programme.
We are pleased to announce that the Chairperson of this years Easter Commemoration will be Lasair Dhearg spokesperson Pádraic Mac Coitir.
Pádraic has been a political activist and trade unionist from his teens and spent fifteen years in gaol, including two on the blanket and no wash protest.
He is the former Chair of the National Graves Association, an avid GAA member, an unapologetic Socialist Republican and in more recent years has been to the forefront of campaigns challenging injustices in healthcare, education, housing and public sector cuts.
Padraig O Fearghail will be the main speaker at this years Easter commemoration. Padraig, from Wicklow, is a seasoned socialist republican activist who has played a key role in organising against imperialism and austerity both nationally and internationally.
Martine Jackson will tend this years commemoration platform to read the 1916 proclamation. A local political and community activist from Lenadoon, Martine has been pro-active with local community groups that advocate for women’s rights and social justice. Martine is a strong internationalist and has been active with international solidarity campaigns including Palestine and anti-fascist demonstrations. She has been a key organiser with the Anti Racism World cup for the last number of years which is the largest anti racist event in Ireland.
We are also pleased to announce that lifelong Republican Máire Drumm will share the platform, and will be reading the 1919 Democratic Programme.
Maire is a former republican prisoner and spent four years in Armagh Gaol. She is a community activist and is highly active within the Colin area. Maire has been very active in recent years with several commemorative bodies, ensuring that fitting tributes are made for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for Ireland’s cause.
Join with us in honouring Irelands patriot dead. Assemble on Easter Monday at 1.00pm at Milltown Cemetery.
