Exhibition honors women who revived Irish language in NI

An exhibition about women who revived the Irish language in Northern Ireland has opened. This is the first exhibition in the Irish language at the Public Records Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI). The exhibition is called Mná na hAthbheochana. The display highlights the important role women played in promoting the Irish language during the late 1960s and early 1970s. This period saw the establishment of the first urban Gaeltacht and the first Irish-medium school. Students from Coláiste Feirste in west Belfast helped create the exhibition. Seventeen-year-old Aoibhín McConnell expressed how inspiring it was to learn about these women. She noted that her grandmother was involved in founding one of the early Irish-medium schools. McConnell emphasized the importance of recognizing women's contributions to Irish language history. Eighteen-year-old Fiona Campbell shared similar feelings. She appreciated seeing women who are often overlooked but played vital roles in history. Campbell felt empowered by their stories and believes they show that anyone can make a difference. The exhibition features photographs and stories in both Irish and English. Teacher Maedhbh Nic Aindreasa shared that several of her family members are recognized in the exhibition. She believes women have often been overlooked in historical narratives and their contributions are significant. Nic Aindreasa also mentioned that having this exhibition at PRONI is a major achievement for the community. She highlighted that the Irish language is an essential part of heritage and culture, not just a hobby. Wendy Mistéil, one of the women featured in the exhibition, noted its uniqueness. She remarked on the significance of celebrating women's roles in a history often dominated by men. Mistéil described these women as ordinary but extraordinary in their impact. The exhibition was organized by the Gael Stair organization and received support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.