We are a group of Irish language speakers from the Belfast Ireland who are a part of the activist movement A Dream Dearg who thought there was a lack of everyday products available in Irish.
Our main objective is to promote the Irish language so as that it will be as visible as possible and a part of everyday life. I remember well as a young gael growing up the many times certain so called politicians in the 6 counties denying that the Irish Irish language community existed and this lit a fire within me to challenge this lie. It is important for me to show the large and lively Irish language community in our society that live an Irish language everyday life here in the North.
We started this page after the Lá Dearg march when 20,000 people came to the streets of Belfast to fight for and demand language rights and recognition for the Irish language in the 6 counties
Through time we realised that had an obligation to go further than the Irish language with the page and that we had a role as Gaels to stand with other oppressed people of the world.
In the summer of 2023 I attended an international solidarity camp with the Lajee center, situated in the aida refugee camp, West Bank Palestine, to gather a greater understanding on the the struggle Palestinian people currently face. During my time there we discussed ways we could support their cause when back in Ireland and I believed that there was an opportunity to do something special through the page. We designed a sports top and stickers in which there was a mixture of both Palestinian and Irish culture throughout. And I’m pleased to say that we have now raised over £10,000 for this amazing organisation to help support the fantastic work they carry out with the local community both young and old.
As well as this solidarity work, it was a highlight for me as an ex-pupil of Coláiste Feirste to be able to work with the largest Irish language school in the world and provide sports kits for their football team. During my time at Coláiste Feirste the phrase 'Ná habair é dean é!' (Don’t talk about it, just do it!) was embedded into us, and that is exactly the mindset and motto we take with this page.
We have also worked with many other Irish language groups that we are delighted to have been able to work with. If you are interested in working with us contact us at [email protected] or contact Laochra on 07549144131