Irish National Famine Memorial Day, May 16th

I thought people might be able to share what is being done in their part of the world to commemorate Irish National Famine Day. Here are some background details. In Hobart, Tasmania Christina Henri and others involved with the Female Factory (female convict prison) site are organising a worthy commemoration of the day as outlined below:

Sunday 16 May, 1 pm: Parliament House Lawns
Irish Roses – To honour the Irish Emigrants, Famine Victims and Convicts who left their homeland and came to Australia. It will include a memorial walk from the Hobart waterfront, following in the steps of the Irish convict women, to the Cascades Female Factory. There will be a short remembrance including the laying of a wreath, music and participants will be regaled with convict fare of bread and water.
A free community event, to participate please register with the FFHS office.

I am pleased that my yongest son, William, will be taking part as a member of the South Hobart Primary School Choir. The Female Factory ruins are in our suburb and the children are actively involved in learning about the culture and heritage of the women who spent time there. Many of course were women sent out from Ireland as a result of their petty crimes committed during the famine.

What is happening in your area? If there is nothing on perhaps you could start the ball rolling by at least spending some time on May 16th remembering those who suffered such hardships and encourage those you know to do the same.

David