The Socialist Party and international feminist movement ROSA held a public meeting in Galway yesterday in anticipation of International Women’s Day. 

Regulars of both groups gathered to share their ongoing concerns and future plans for the year.  

“There’s a feeling that it is important to build a movement,” said Martina Shafford. Ms Shafford spoke at the meeting, standing in for a Brazilian socialist feminist group that had to cancel at the last minute due to illness. 

The rise of far-right movements worldwide was a high concern. In her speech, Ms Shafford warned of these rise of far-rights movements globally, emphasising the current conflict in Israel/Palestine. 

After her speech, the meeting opened for public discussion, giving attendees the opportunity to participate in the discussion. Participants shared their own experiences and how that shaped their involvement in the socialist movement. 

A place to share 

Sophia Thieme, a Galway citizen from Germany, enjoyed the meeting and said that she was happy to see “that people come together even in small cities like Galway”. 

“It is really motivating to see,” she added.

Member of the Socialist Party Conor Burke was also happy with the turnout. For him, he felt satisfied to see “people interested in the movement”.

According to Mr Burke, the socialist movement has suffered a deteriorating image throughout history. “Our struggle is all about building that movement and bringing it back to its prominence,” he said. 

For him, younger generations lack the experience with strong social movements, but are already starting to challenge different systems.

“They are looking for ideals that challenge these narratives of the system and socialism has loads of answers to give,” he said.

Plans for International Women’s Day

Members discussed their plans for International Women’s Day, including the final push for a YES/YES vote in the Family and Care Referendums. ROSA and the Socialist party are also hosting a march in Eyre Square at 6pm as part of ‘Reclaim the night’.