Explore histories and heritage of traveller culture
AS part of the ongoing Travellers’ Journey exhibition, the National Museum of Ireland in Turlough Park will host a number of talks and events exploring Traveller life and traditions in the west of Ireland.
On Saturday, February 23, I am Traveller brings together a number of panellists who will share their lived experiences and knowledge of Traveller culture. Advocates in their communities, they will discuss Traveller-led initiatives that promote and record Traveller culture, heritage and inclusion.
The panellists include Hugh Friel, a tireless campaigner against racism and 2015 winner of the Traveller Pride award; Michael McDonagh, a well-regarded expert on Traveller history and culture; Mary Collins, a family support liaison officer with Mayo Traveller Support Group; and Oein DeBhairduin, an ardent folklorist and Gammon speaker.
The event aims to positively promote Traveller culture and counteract negative media surrounding travellers.
In recognition of the Travellers’ Journey exhibition and its associated events, director of the National Museum of Ireland (NMI), Lynn Scarff, said: “A key value of the NMI is diversity and accessibility and through exhibitions like the Travellers’ Journey, and its associated programming, we seek to emphasise and explore the richness of Irish life across cultures and ethnicities.
“The I am Traveller panel discussion will provide a platform within the National Museum of Ireland to explore the traditions and heritage amongst the Traveller community and add greatly to creating a new permanent exhibition in the museum.”
Curator for the NMI, Rosa Meehan, said: “The I am Traveller panel discussion offers a space for Travellers and non-Travellers alike to explore Traveller culture with leading experts from around Ireland.
“We hope this event will also bring increased visibility to aspects of Traveller culture and made this better known as part of the wider cultural heritage of Ireland.”
Other related events at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life include:
February 21st (Thursday) - Magical Moving Images – using moving images to activate conversation on prejudice.
March 9th (Saturday) - Conversations with Louise Wallace and Ian McDonagh, looking at life as a young traveller person in Ireland and how art projects developed from collaborations between artist and traveller.
March 23rd (Saturday) - Fold Cures and Irish Traveller Herb Lore – The importance of folk medicine and protecting disappearing traditions.
April 12th (Friday) - Launch of Travellers’ Journey Children’s book – a partnership project with Kids’ Own Publishing Ltd, and Scoil Iosa and Involve, Ballina.
Booking is on educationtph@museum.ie or (094) 9031751.