My Timothy Smith trip took place in Ireland, a destination close to my heart (and research interests) because of its rich history, beautiful landscapes and welcoming people. During my travels to Galway, Derry/Londonderry, and Monkstown (about 30 minutes outside of Dublin) my research focus was Post-Troubles Ireland, and specifically what aspects of the peace process seem to have really taken hold and been helpful on the island.
Not much of my trip was planned, and that led to some unexpected adventures. My time in Galway happened to coincide with an international film festival. I bought tickets to a variety of films, one of which was called Froggie. Froggie was made by a team of Irish creatives and was partially written in the Irish language. It’s about two brothers who are trying to take their act – which involves a large stuffed frog – to new heights. Before the film even began, a stuffed frog was making the rounds outside the theater for photo ops, setting the stage for a bizarre, yet hilarious and oddly heartwarming experience. Both the film and the festival as a whole showcased Irish humor, artistry and creativity – all of which ended up being discussed in my project.
Another highlight was a tour I took in Derry/Londonderry through a neighborhood called the Bogside. A lot of the violence that happened during The Troubles in Derry/Londonderry happened in or near the Bogside, and today it’s the site of many memorials and murals. I signed up for the tour the night before, and didn’t know what to expect. Midway through the tour, I got to talking with my guide, Mr. Doherty, who shared that he’d lived in Derry/Londonderry his whole life, and that his father had been involved in Bloody Sunday. Pointing at a mural depicting the 13 victims of that day, he quietly said, “That’s my dad.” I was floored. Throughout the tour he had spoken about how violence has no place in Ireland or Northern Ireland anymore, and emphasized the importance of education, reconciliation and governmental acknowledgement of the wrongs committed during the violence. His message of peace, despite having every reason to hold onto hate and anger, was deeply inspiring and also helped shape my project.
In addition to these experiences I also got to check out some amazing museums in Dublin, (I would highly recommend the EPIC Museum in particular), do some great hikes, and meet some wonderful locals, including my Airbnb hosts in Monkstown, Sean and Mary. They were so kind, and we ended up eating breakfast together each morning. We’ve already made plans to grab a coffee next time I’m back in Dublin – you really do make lots of new friends when solo traveling!
My biggest takeaway from these experiences and the subsequent research I did was that the stories we tell, and the ways in which we frame the causes we care about, matter immensely. My project ended up focusing on how the Irish have reframed rebellion and what it means to reclaim their culture and assert their independence. It was incredibly enlightening to see how language, the arts, borders, and emigration all intertwine and can contribute to peace. The Irish exemplify what it means to work for peace all while remaining fiercely proud of your roots, and they are also lovely hosts!
I am incredibly grateful to the University of Tampa Honors Program and Timothy M. Smith foundation for this opportunity. Travel and exploration are truly some of the best experiential learning mechanisms, and this trip has certainly sparked a curiosity, intellect, and sense of adventure in me that will extend far beyond my 10 days in Ireland.
