The future for unionists….

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Is there room for two or more identites on this island?

If there is then how do we accomodate the smaller minorities, including unionists? Recent negative media attention surrounding eleventh night bonfires and other aspects of unionist tradition and heritage will do nothing to alleviate the growing loyalist disillusionment with the peace process and general alienation . For a start rather than demonising an entire culture, it would help if bonfires were not petrol bombed when properly organised and more recognition and support afforded to the modernisers and progressive members within unionism.

Why are loyalist flute bands any less cultural than any other band? Especially when the likes of the Kilcluney Volunteers can travel to the Limerick International Marching Band Competition and come away with the Best Flute Band Award, without changing their outward appearance and without being accused of being sectarian bigots! Why is Ulster-Scots derided and questioned when it can and should be a positive and constructive outlet for creativity? Projects like On Eagles Wing provide and alternative from the communal strife we are used to. Indeed if the Ulster-Scots Agency can participate in a St. Patrick`s Parade in Atlanta then surely we are only one step away from it happening in Ireland.

It is something worth pondering.

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