In May 2024, the Clare Traveller Community Development Project (CDP) hosted an unforgettable Traveller Pride event in Lee’s Road, celebrating the rich culture and heritage of the Traveller community. The event, which attracted over 200 attendees, showcased a Living History Exhibition that transported visitors back to the 1950s, offering a rare and immersive glimpse into Traveller life during that era.

The centrepiece of the exhibition was a fully restored Barrel Top Wagon, a traditional tent, and a flat cart, all set against the backdrop of a campfire, reminiscent of a bygone era. Visitors were treated to live demonstrations of tinsmithing, storytelling by Traveller women, and an authentic camp scene that highlighted the traditions and lifestyle of Travellers from decades past.

Bridgie Casey, Coordinator of Clare Traveller CDP, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This is an amazing opportunity to get an insight into Traveller heritage and history, and the contribution of Travellers to Irish history for our community and the settled community.”

The day was filled with entertainment for all ages, including live music, performances, and a family-friendly barbecue that brought the community together.

The event provided a platform for both Travellers and the settled community to engage, learn, and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry of the Traveller community. Martin McDonagh, the men’s development worker with the CDP, highlighted the importance of such events, saying, “All are welcome on the day to share the celebration of our culture and learn about our identity. It is important that our history is passed down through the generations.”

Reflecting on the event, Maja Syncerz, a community development worker with the CDP, expressed the importance of having a day to simply celebrate and be proud. “As the Traveller CDP, we advocate a lot, we challenge discrimination, run programmes, and the community engage with our services and do absolutely fantastic work. And It’s just nice to do something positive, with Traveller Pride. Often the stuff that Travellers are dealing with on a daily basis is discrimination, fighting and loss. Having a chance to just be together and celebrate, it’s no small thing. That day is really, really important, to just come there, enjoy and be proud.”

Culture & Identity is a core tenant of the Traveller CDP’s work, and this event was a great opportunity to build connection and raise awareness. “It’s amazing to see Traveller Pride being celebrated every year, and the culture and heritage being recognized,” Maja added. Not only was it attended by members of the Traveller community, but there was a lot of interest from the settled community too. There’s a real lack of recognition of Traveller history and culture, and it’s nice to bring that back and highlight their contribution to Irish history.“

The day was a true celebration of Traveller culture and history, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. As Maja put it, “Traveller culture made a massive, massive contribution to Irish history. All of our differences should be celebrated, explored with curiosity, and supported, rather than outcasted.”

Traveller Pride 2024 was a day of unity, reflection, and celebration—a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and honouring the rich heritage of the Traveller community.