As British forces tightened their grip after the Easter Rising, General Sir John Maxwell tried to extend his control to the Irish Church. He demanded that Bishop Thomas O’Dwyer of Limerick remove priests who spoke against British rule. O’Dwyer’s May 17th response was swift and unflinching: “You appeal to me to help you in furtherance of your office as military dictator of Ireland. Even if that were my role, the events of the past weeks make it impossible for me to have any part in proceedings I regard as wantonly cruel and oppressive.” “You took care that no pleas for mercy should interpose on behalf of the poor young fellows who surrendered to you in Dublin… Your regime has been one of the worst and blackest chapters in the history of the misgovernment of the country.” On May 17, Bishop O’Dwyer proved that not all in authority would bow to British power. His courage gave voice to a silenced nation. One bishop stood up when it counted. His name deserves to be remembered (fb)

Thousands gathered in Bellaghy for the "Walk For Truth" honoring Sean Brown's legacy and demanding justice. This monumental event resonated with emotions of solidarity, resilience, and unity within the GAA community as they marched from St Mary’s Church to Páirc Seán de Brúin. Over two decades have passed, but the call for a public inquiry into Sean Brown's tragic murder by loyalist paramilitaries remains strong. This unity and determination embody the GAA's values, as stated by Jarlath Burns, GAA President, emphasizing the community's resolute demand for truth and justice. Sean Brown's family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stressing that their journey is walked together with the entire community. #JusticeForSeanBrown #WalkForTruth #CommunitySolidarity #TruthAndJustice #Bellaghy #NorthernIreland #LegacyOfTheTroubles #HumanRights #PublicInquiry #JusticeMatters (fb)