Martin Luther King didn’t just inspire generations of Americans with his non-violent campaign for civil rights, he also inspired many Irish people and civil rights campaigners, most notably the late John Hume.
King wrote: “Resistance and non-violence aren’t good in themselves. There’s another element that must be present in our struggle which makes resistance and non-violence truly meaningful. That element is reconciliation.“
Unfortunately Martin Luther King was taken too soon. As was Robert Kennedy. Hume also expended his health in the quest for a settled reconciliation between the two main traditions in Ireland.
Caring about sharing is the way to build a consensus for unity - Tom KellyOpens in new windowDisturbing questions remain about dirty war after Kenova revelations – Tom KellyOpens in new windowAs with Gaza, the victims and survivors of our Troubles deserve truth and justice - Tom KellyOpens in new windowKing, Kennedy and Hume fought for legislative frameworks which built in protections, enshrined human rights, respected difference and created space for diversity to thrive.
Belfast is a dirty slum which reeks of decay and dereliction - Jake O’Kane
Don’t........