This discussion had to begin with just one speaker, Ellen Duggan, as the other two speakers arrived a few minutes late due to public transport delays from the outer suburbs of Dublin – which, as Ellen pointed out, aptly symbolised some of the more pressing challenges to access to education in Ireland.
Other topics discussed during the session included criticism of the conference’s economic framing as using the language of the oppressor, and of the use of the word ‘towards’ as being too incremental. Direct action was emphasised as important for bringing about real change, as opposed to simply talking.
There was strong concern expressed about corporate influence and sponsorship of research by universities, including the conference host, TCD, and also about the heavy burden that is being placed on young people who are pressured to take on leadership roles in the ecological transition, but who might just want to grow up, have a job, and have a family.
Nathan Hutchison Edgar (facilitator)
Visual report from session (click to enlarge)
Artwork by Vicky Donnelly and Helen O’Keefe.
Photography by Killian Broderick.
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