You Are Now Entering the Town of Free Derry
Justin T. Andries
You can’t visit Northern Ireland without noticing the vivid murals and signs etched onto the sides of various houses and buildings. These wall murals were beautiful and were clearly making a statement. Not only did every face present in these images tell a story about the political history of this country, but they depicted how the effects of The Troubles still linger in its citizens today, as a lot of them are still alive to give their personal testament. Most of the murals I encountered during my trip to Northern Ireland consisted of the horrible, inhumane, and gut-wrenching experiences of innocent Irish men, women, and children during the 30-year conflict, giving a voice to those who were wronged.
The first of three murals located in Derry/Londonderry depicts how the citizens of Northern Ireland were fighting for basic human rights. This mural depicts how an oppressed group of people was demanding a world where justice, equality, and freedom were entitled to everyone.
The issue of civil rights first came to the attention of the world when the police attacked a peaceful demonstration, also known as Bloody Sunday, where 14 unarmed demonstrators were killed, and 17 others were injured.
Michael Quinn (17) was wounded by a bullet in the shoulder that exited through his face.
Alana Burke (18) was crushed against a wall by an armored vehicle.
William Kenny (27) was shot in the back and killed as he tried to help the wounded.
Joseph Mahon (16) was shot in the leg, and feigned death as British soldiers approached.
The next mural, which is a little more graphic and attention-grabbing than the previous one depicts the murder of an innocent civilian. This bystander was shot and pronounced dead on the scene by a priest who swiftly came to his aid, but immediately realized there was nothing he could do to help. This mural, in my opinion, is meant to portray how the people of Northern Ireland were wrongfully persecuted by the British army and wanted justice to be served. As someone who has no connection to the brutal treatment these individuals faced, I can only imagine how my deep sadness and anger for the victims is further perpetuated in those who were personally affected by these atrocities. I believe these murals are meant to remind everyone just how recent the past was and how the citizens of Northern Ireland are still working towards justice for these innocent individuals.
