Event honouring 1916 women opens
An exhibition commemorating the women of 1916 was launched at City Hall recently.
‘ Mná: Women of 1916’ honours the contributions of women on Irish society 100 years ago. It was curated by author and historian Sinéad McCoole.
Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Hubert Keaney, said the exhibition would “enlighten, inspire and challenge” visitors.
He said: “The role played by the women in the 1916 Rising may have been under- stated by historians and academics, and we are greatly indebted to Sinead McCoole for her exemplary work in researching, publishing and exhibiting material on the Rising, the War of Independence and the Civil War.”
He added: “It will also provide the context to reflect on the role the women of Ireland played in the 1916 Rising, and to consider the broader issue of celebrating the role of women in Irish society.” The exhibition is part of 2016 centenary programme and is based on information from military archives, national cultural institutions and private collections. It features more than 300 women who took part in the Rising.
Among those featured is Dr Kathleen Lynn who met with British forces to arrange a surrender at Dublin City Hall.
Sinead, the curator, said: “While the women of the Rising came from diverse backgrounds, they united around such causes as the promotion of workers’ rights, and the revival of Irish language and music.
“It will enable us to get a true perspective on this hugely important aspect of our history.”