Kaitlyn Yu: Discovering Ireland Through Its People and Past

Before the start of this trip, my only source of knowledge of Ireland and Northern Ireland came from fantasy books and TV shows — I didn’t learn about the Troubles until I did extra research before signing up. However, I knew I wanted to experience Ireland for myself, outside of what I’d read and seen, and form my perceptions about the region’s history and the impacts of colonialism and sectarian conflicts in today’s world. 

And my Spring Break trip did not disappoint! My favorite parts of the program were learning about the Troubles from firsthand accounts of people in the communities we visited. It was shocking to see how many people had been affected by the sectarian conflicts, and it made my understanding of the effects of the Troubles much more concrete. I enjoyed hearing their perceptions of the conflict and anecdotes from their experiences during the Troubles. All these stories restored my faith in humanity — I now truly believe that we can work past differences to ensure a peaceful community for all.

I also enjoyed sightseeing on the Northern Irish coast and learning about stories and myths in Irish culture. We toured national parks, castles, and World Heritage sites like the Giant’s Causeway. The bumpy bus rides on country roads and ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ blasting out of the speakers made me feel like I was in a coming-of-age movie about traveling the world! The sightseeing was a nice reprieve to let us enjoy nature while processing the heavy and impactful information we’d learned in the museums.

I was also extremely grateful for our opportunity to interact with younger community members in the youth centers. They were inquisitive and spirited, and enjoyed many of the same things I did! I played kickball, sang karaoke, and played video or card games with them. One night, we even organized a dance party! Though the children and teens did not have a solid understanding of American culture (I got asked a few times about how close I lived to Miami, or if I had met Mr. Beast before), they were eager to learn about our lives while sharing their experiences with us. I also learned a lot about their culture and lifestyle — a few kids were happy I supported Liverpool too, while I was impressed that they learned Irish in school (they taught me a few words as well). This was a very wholesome and impactful experience for me, and I wish I could have spent more time making friends and chatting with the kids in the youth centers.  

This trip has taught me so many invaluable lessons. I now understand that a singular perspective cannot define history, and a community cannot be identified by just one opinion. It’s normal to see very different and radical views on the same events (like the Troubles), but we have to consider all the different perspectives when we shape our understanding of history. And if the Nationalist and Loyalist radicals can put their differences aside – if Ian Paisley and Gerry Adams can sit next to each other at a table and sign a peace agreement together – then other communities can do the same as well. It’s very important, especially in a day and age where extremism is becoming more prominent and misinformation is everywhere, to set aside differences and understand opinions that differ from yours. Everyone is human, after all, and everyone ultimately wants a community where people can get along. Furthermore, it’s alright to be overwhelmed or unsure how to process the stories or information you’ve learned about Irish history. Grief and sorrow are not unusual emotions to experience after hearing or reading something saddening or particularly triggering to some part of your identity – it’s also important to accept and talk through your feelings.

Once again, I appreciated the opportunity to be on this trip! I made friends with people from within and outside my community, and gained a better understanding and appreciation for Irish history and culture, especially regarding the Troubles. This experience has made stories or news from Ireland so much more impactful and tangible, and the things I’ve learned on this trip have changed my perceptions of peacebuilding and humanity in the world.

Kaitlyn Yu