Ireland Remembers: Stories of Home, Hardship and Solidarity will connect the history of Ireland’s Great Famine and mass emigration

Join us for a free community event marking the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

This event connects Ireland’s history with the experiences of people who have faced poverty, displacement, forced migration and the challenge of building a new life.

The programme will have three parts:

Ireland Remembers – Historical Presentation

We will begin with a short presentation about the Great Irish Famine, which took place between 1845 and 1852.

The failure of the potato crop caused widespread hunger, but poverty, dependence on the potato, evictions and the political and economic system of that time made the disaster much worse. About one million people died, and around two million people left Ireland in search of safety and a better life.

We will remember the people who suffered, lost their homes and families, or were forced to leave their country. We will also consider how this history can help us understand poverty, housing insecurity and migration today.

Personal Stories of Migration, Strength and Hope

In the second part, participants will be invited to share personal stories of forced migration and starting a new life in another country.

We will talk about the challenges people experience, where they find the strength to continue, and which positive and supportive words can help them and others during difficult times.

Sharing a personal story is completely voluntary. Participants are welcome to speak, listen and support one another in a safe and respectful atmosphere.

Creative Art Activity – Becoming Stronger Through Difficult Times

In the final part, we will create a personal symbolic artwork.

The activity will help participants express their feelings and strengthen their belief that they can overcome difficulties, continue developing and become a stronger version of themselves, whatever is happening around them.

Together, we will reflect on how difficult times can change us without taking away our humanity. We will explore how to protect kindness, dignity, compassion and hope, while growing in inner strength, spirituality and personal qualities.

No previous art experience is needed.

Date: Saturday, 17 October 2026

Time: 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

Venue: Drogheda Library, Drogheda

Admission: Free

Advance registration is required.

The event is organised and delivered by Arts & Wellbeing Drogheda Community Group as a part of New Life Integration & Wellbeing Network CLG

The Department of Social Protection supports this project as part of its funding initiative for the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

Description supplied by the event organiser.