Critical education in the Irish repeal movement. Issue 2 (3rd July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fitzsimons, Camilla
• Is Part Of: Studies in the education of adults. Volume 54:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 128
• Page End: 144
• Publication Date: 2022-07-03
• Subjects: The eighth amendment -- reproductive justice -- critical pedagogy -- adult education -- and social movements -- Ireland -- grassroots activism; Adult education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 374.941
• DOI: 10.1080/02660830.2022.2077532
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-0830

Abstract

Abstract: This article is written from a pro-choice perspective. Through a radical, inclusive feminist lens, I examine educational aspects of the Irish repeal movement; a 35 year long, grassroots movement that forced the hand of reluctant politicians into calling a referendum to repeal the eighth amendment. I draw from websites and media interviews, my own experience as an academic-activist, and aspects of comprehensive mixed methods research I carried out over a three-year period (2018–2021). I maintain it was the independent (non-state funded) nature of pro-choice groups that enabled them to determine their own structures and tactics including participative, dialogic, hands-on, adult education. As the Irish reproductive rights movement enters a new phase of seeking to improve one of Europe's most conservative laws, I argue for a reproductive justice approach that expands its demands far beyond the single issue of abortion access. An ongoing critical pedagogic dimension is crucial as part of this struggle.