'We need to tell more than just half the story': Cities to be lit up with images of forgotten Irish women

“In the dark month of January, we chose the theme of light,” the festival’s founder said.

A LIGHT FESTIVAL to celebrate iconic Irish women throughout history is set to launch today on Dame Street in Dublin.

The light projection festival, called HerStory, is set to take place over the next four days to coincide with Nollaig na mBan, or Women’s Little Christmas.

Its first light projection on Dame Street will feature figures such as female pilot Lady Mary Heath, astronomer Agnes Clerke, St Brigid and mathematician and computer programmer Kay McNulty.

Join us for #IlluminateHerstory as we light up the country with images of women on Nollaig na mBan (5-8th Jan 2017) https://t.co/PTq4Rvu2bN pic.twitter.com/0exYMMYbgt
— HerstoryIreland (@HerstoryIreland) November 20, 2016

herstory / Twitter

The organisers for Illuminate HerStory said that county and city councils across the country have commissioned light installations and events across the four days.

Homes, town squares, theatres, libraries, museums and iconic buildings are set to feature the iconic women from Ireland’s history between today and Sunday across all four provinces.

Calling Dublin! Join us today at 4.45pm for the unveil of the #IlluminateHerstory installation at Palace Street Offices, beside City Hall pic.twitter.com/zfiBNAbf5K
— HerstoryIreland (@HerstoryIreland) January 5, 2017

herstory / Twitter

HerStory founder and director, Melanie Lynch, said: “In the dark month of January we chose the theme of light. We want to start the year with optimism and hope, as we strive for equality for all.

The Irish are known as the best storytellers in the world, but until now we have only told half the story. Illuminate Herstory is an event for the people, and it’s really easy to get involved and pay tribute to the women you love.

Lynch added that anyone can get involved across the country over the next few days. All they need is a projector and a collection of photos to showcase the women they want to celebrate. More info on HerStory can be found here.

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