Heritage Editorial

FROM THE EDITOR’S CORNER

The Oxford dictionary definition of heritage is “the history, traditions, and qualities that a country or society has had for many years and that are considered an important part of its character”. I think for Irish people in particular a major part of our genes is to always have this sense of pride for our heritage. Especially, when we move away from our homeland. I found this in particular for myself, when I left Ireland for 10 months to live in Boston. The friends I made on this study abroad experience were in majority Irish, also on exchange programs. On nights out we would gravitate towards other Irish people in the pub and instantly try to make connections through our aunt’s, cousin’s friend. It was like we were searching for this closeness to home 5000 km away.

What is in our heritage that makes us feel like this? As Irish people we take alot of pride in being Irish and being recognised for being Irish. We were only a free state for the last century, we did not always have this strong identity, being under the rule of the British Empire. Even going further back in our history, during the 19th century, Irish people were driven from their green lands due to a famine. Their only chance of living was to travel the same distance I travelled but in “coffin ships”. With so many of our people having to flee our land, did the people who travelled all those kilometres, 200 years ago, also cling to this idolised idea of their Homeland? Did they also try to hold onto their heritage as much as we do? Did they take pride in being Irish? Has this trait always been in Irish blood?

Once again, Irish people have to hold on to their heritage across the seas due to the rise in cost of living. In the route the country is going, unfortunately,the fate that our ancestors had is also becoming a reality for so many young Irish adults today.However, these young adults still hold Ireland in their hearts as they travel to sunny Oz, and show off their Irish heritage with pride. Realistically, we can expect to see 100 more Irish pubs pop up around the globe, a clear sign of Irish heritage in an area, due to the high influx of emigration.

In this Issue, we get a glimpse into different stories of heritage, through different pasts people have lived and how a person’s heritage is represented in today's age. In our Features and Opinions Editor, Cian Walsh’s piece ‘Not Defined by Origin’, recounts a story of adoption and discovering your heritage. Contributing writer Dante Kunc discusses their past with accepting their Jewish heritage when they first moved to Ireland.

We also have an exclusive interview with up band member Finn Manning of the up and coming Cork band Cardinals, where he discusses Irish roots, withdrawing from SXSW along with other Irish bands, and the Irish language with our own Current Affairs Editor Adrian Quinn. Tess O’Regan our Entertainment Editor examines Irish stereotypes that are portrayed in the media with examples of Martin McDonagh’s movie The Banshees of Inisherin and Oasis.

Heritage is unique to each individual, but also a source to connect us with people. I hope you find some of these articles relatable and eye opening in a world where one's heritage should be celebrated. I can only speak of my own Irish heritage and experience but there are so many different stories and perspectives to be told and we are glad that here at Motley we give a platform to share yours.