‘We are Human Too,’ the most remarkable, comprehensive analysis ever published of the Irish state’s treatment of Disabled People and the progress made by activists will be launched at the opening of the prestigious Ennis Book Club Festival 2024 on March 1st.
‘We are Human Too’ unveils the untold story of Ireland’s dark treatment of Disabled People through their own eyes. It presents a profound analysis of discrimination, neglect and paternalism alongside a stirring narrative of resilient activism that has defied all odds to challenge the established order.
These tireless Activists have rallied to compel the Irish State to shift from outdated medical and charitable models of segregation by honouring its obligations to fundamental rights, equality, and independence.
Editor, Ann Marie Flanagan, describes the book as “a ground-breaking achievement, capturing the history and shattering the confining lens of ableism. It’s an essential narrative told from Disabled People’s perspective, affirming rights and ambitions as equal to anyone else’s. This is not just a record; it’s a declaration that all Disabled People have a right to be treated equally.”
Former President Mary McAleese has described the book “as a great read” and, “with this publication, we can see what we owe to the courage, resilience and commitment of so many. They have brought closer the lived reality of a Republic of equals and while it is still a work in progress, there is fresh hope today that past generations dreamt of, laboured for and is a gift to a new generation, a new future. She added that the message and lessons of the book need to be enacted because “chronicled here is how that hope is built brick by brick.”
‘We are Human Too’ exposes the State’s disconcerting abandonment of its duty to support all Disabled People on an equal basis with others. Professor Eilionóir Flynn, Director of Disability Law and Policy at the University of Galway, in the Foreword says the book, meticulously documents the State’s “continued failure to respect, protect, and fulfil the human rights of Disabled People, set out in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
As well as social and institutional analysis, the book offers poignant inputs of lives constrained, rights denied, and potential stifled.
These narratives reveal the unwavering determination of individuals fighting to gain their independence and power from the State, religious and secular charities, and unwarranted paternalism.
Though rooted in County Clare, “We are Human Too” transcends regional boundaries to narrate a national representation featuring Disabled Activists, academics and Allies, from all corners of Ireland. Together, they share their fervent commitment to challenge oppressive systems and discriminatory attitudes, championing a vision of Independent Living and the full protection of rights.
Renowned singer Christy Moore commented on the book, saying, “‘We Are Human Too’ describes vividly why people must fight for their rights, and is a very important record of struggle, a struggle that has been happening for far too long, going on under our noses in every part of Ireland. If you do one thing this year, get your hands on this book. There is no going back once you read it.”
In the upcoming weeks, a nationwide tour will take place in conjunction with the co-production team and local Disabled activists, Disabled People’s Organisations and other organisations.
Ann Marie is appealing to politicians and leaders to heed its message and act, “The moment has come to transform our right to equality into tangible results, fulfilling the State’s duty to treat Disabled People as equals before the law, as enshrined in Article 40.1 of the Constitution.”
Dominic Taylor, Managing Editor of Limerick Writers’ Centre, publisher, commented that, “the book stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering resilience and impactful activism of Disabled People. Within its pages, proudly amplified are the voices of individuals who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to the ongoing struggle for their rights throughout the years. This collaborative effort not only sheds light on the historical journey of Disabled People but also serves as a declaration of human rights, asking readers to become an ally, to witness the strength and determination that has shaped the Disabled People’s rights movement. The book captures the spirit of a community”.
The book can be bought throughout the festival weekend in Glór by The Ennis Bookshop and thereafter in-store and online at www.ennisbookshop.ie.
Books are also available in Banner Books in Ennistymon and Kilrush.