Louth Mourns Palestine, and Celebrates Brigid

Beansprout
Feb 2
2 min read

As the long January finally ends, and we fall into St. Brigid’s day, community groups across the country took the day to reflect on the harrowing loss over the last 15 months of genocide on the Palestinian people.

St. Brigid has become a hero of feminism and strength for many Irish people – A beacon, an advocate for all. With the start of spring bringing hope and growth, the symbolism around St. Brigid has quite accidentally became synonymous with a day of Irish grieving for Palestine. Afterall, those who have been oppressed and colonised recognise each other in a way no other group can.

The wee county gave a strong representation for both St. Brigid and Palestine on February 1st. Local groups Drogheda Stands with Palestine and Drogheda for All joined forces to entertain a large grouping on West Street, with music and entertainment and the usual chants. More importantly they collected over 1,000 signatures from people passing by, asking the government to implement the Occupied Territories Bill. Prior to re-election, the current government had promised this was their top priority but have since backtracked on this action. The group is taking signatures online also, for anyone that wishes to sign - https://www.change.org/p/implement-the-occupied-territories-bill-in-ireland

(once you sign, make sure to check your e-mail to verify your e-mail address for the site).

Drogheda Stands With Palestine - Facebook

In attendance were local councillors, TD’s and members from opposition parties, various community groups, musicians and plenty of locals. Spirits were high at this wonderful event.

Dundalk was without their usual Palestine gathering, as they celebrated Brigid in style with its weekend light show. However, Louth IPSC have regular vigils at the square/ outside the courthouse for anyone wishing to attend. Generally these are held on Wednesday evenings - with fundraisers, movie evenings and bridge events in between.

St. Brigid light show in Dundalk - The Irish Independent

Next up was Ardee, where Louth for Palestine (a collective of the community/ an online billboard used to advertise all local Palestine events) held a daytime vigil beside the Cúchulainn and Ferdia statue. This short event had a few words said by the organisers, followed by poetry and music. Yet again, the theme was very much St. Brigid, and the unique link we share with the Palestinian people.