Irish Revolution’s Radical Hearts
In a groundbreaking television documentary set to air next week, TG4 brings to light the untold stories of eight extraordinary female couples who played pivotal roles in the Irish Revolution, liberating Ireland from British rule. Directed by Ciara Hyland, “Croíthe Radacacha” (Radical Hearts) delves into the lives of these women, whose radical politics, feminism, and commitment to freedom have, until now, remained hidden from the pages of history.
The documentary sheds light on the relationship between Eva Gore-Booth and Esther Roper, both from Sligo, who fought for justice and edited Urania, a magazine advocating for gender abolition and LGBTQ+ rights. Eva Gore-Booth and Esther Roper’s partnership challenges traditional narratives, showcasing their commitment to activism and equality.
Eveleen O’Brien from Tubbercurry is another remarkable figure featured in the documentary, illuminating her relationship with Helena Molony, a dynamic activist for women’s and worker’s rights. Their story, like others, highlights the intertwining of personal and political lives during a tumultuous period in Irish history.
The women showcased in “Croíthe Radacacha” faced significant challenges during the Civil War in 1922, choosing the anti-Treaty side in pursuit of the Republic proclaimed in 1916. The documentary captures the struggles and losses these women endured, emphasizing the clash between their radical visions and the conservative identity imposed on Ireland post-Civil War.
Historian Mary McAuliffe’s groundbreaking research plays a crucial role in rewriting LGBTQ+ contributions into the history of Ireland’s formation, emphasizing the difficulties of documenting love that had to remain discreet.
Kathleen Lynn, a pioneering doctor, and her partner Madeline French-Mullen embody the spirit of these women. From their involvement in the 1913 Lockout to living together for 30 years, they navigated activism, healthcare, and a deeply intimate partnership.
As “Croíthe Radacacha” brings these stories to light, it emphasizes the contemporary resonance of their struggles for equality. The personal and political intertwining in the lives of these women mirrors the ongoing demands for inclusivity and an end to discrimination by today’s activist generation.
Sources:
- Irish Independent. (2023, November 28). TV documentary reveals hidden stories of female couples involved in the Irish revolution including Sligo women. Independent.ie.
- Connaught Telegraph. (2023, November 28). Mayo woman features in TG4 series Croíthe Radacacha. Connaught Telegraph.
- Image Credit: Irish Independent