Traveller Pride Week 2020 celebrates diversity with a host of online events scheduled

Traveller Pride Week 2020 kicked off yesterday, a new event celebrating the rich culture of Mincéir heritage in the hopes of educating those who know little of their teachings.

The official launch took place in the Oireachtas yesterday, and was announced by newly appointed Senator Eileen Flynn - the first Traveller woman to be voted into government buildings.

Spanning across two weeks, Traveller Pride boasts a diverse array of events celebrating Traveller culture including panel discussions, live music and traditional storytelling.

It is an opportunity for a collective effort to highlight and amplify our uniquely diverse community," explains Bernard Joyce, one of the event's organisers.

A panel discussion with the director of Pavee Point Martin Collins, coordinator of Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group Catherine Joyce and NI Traveller activist Amy Ward was also held yesterday.

A number of live events and celebrations will now be held online due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Organisers say they want to “help create change and overcome racism and discrimination”, as well as “endorse equality and inclusion” by using ‘#diversitywithin’ on social media platforms.

“I stood for what I believed in all my life, even when it meant pushing through racism and inequality," said Senator Flynn.

"As young Traveller women, we need to embrace the diversity of who we are and celebrate this throughout Traveller Pride 2020 and beyond."

Writing on Twitter, the newly appointed Senator expressed her enthusiasm for her own experiences within the community, which faces a huge amount of racism relating to education, health and social issues.

"Happy Traveller Pride to every Traveller in Ireland and beyond. This year, it's brilliant to celebrate diversity within our community," Ní Fhloinn said.

"The Traveller community has a long and rich history of culture, language, music and skill. Nomadism is a part of the human experience and many Travellers seek to continue that tradition, one which has played a huge part in shaping the Ireland of today."

Numerous events will take place over the next two weeks, with information posted to the official Traveller Pride Week Facebook page.

Musician Sharyn Ward will go live on Facebook this evening, July 14, for a Traveller Pride Week special.

Traveller comedian and activist Martin 'Beanz' Warde will speak on issues around equality and diversity with community activist, author and LGBTQIA+ campaigner Oein De Bhairduin tomorrow, July 15, at 7pm.

Martin will be taking over the official page for Traveller Pride Week 2020 - if you have any questions for either Martin or Oein, send them on in advance via Facebook Messenger.

This Thursday, July 16, Thomas McCarthy is set to host an evening of traditional music and storytelling.

Thomas is the winner of the Traditional Singer of the Year Award in the Gradam Ceoil Awards 2019 and comes from a family that have been widely regarded as musicians that play a vital part in keeping Traditional Irish and folk music alive.

What fantastic start to Traveller Pride Week, thank you to all our wonderful friends, allies and supporters. #MinceirPride #diversitywithin https://t.co/S2nxojxTd1

— Dr Sindy Joyce (@SindyLJoyce) July 14, 2020