Global Irish Diaspora Congress to be held in UCD this August
By Chloe Maguire Sedgwick | Apr 1 2017
The first annual Global Irish Diaspora Congress is being held in UCD from the 15th to 19th of August 2017.This congress is the first in a triennial series. Its goal is to research and explore the histories, heritages, cultures, and identities of Irish people who live abroad.Over 70 million people claim to be descended from Irish emigrants. This has led to scholars being intrigued by the culture of emigration found in Ireland which spans from the middle ages to the present day. There is still more to learn about how Irish identities have formed and are expressed worldwide.Due to the vast and dispersed nature of the Irish diaspora, there have been difficulties in the past when trying to exchange ideas and having a global discussion. This congress aims to fix this problem.Being able to compare perspectives will improve research on this topic. The aim of the congress if that more will be learnt about why Irish people migrate, which Irish people migrated, the similarities and differences Irish migrants experiences depending on time and place, the impact Irish migration has had on other cultures, and the relationship between those who form the Irish diaspora and Irish citizens.The congress will create a situation where these long awaited conversations can be had. Scholars and researchers across different fields worldwide are encouraged to attend the congress, for four days of plenaries and parallel sessions in Dublin. The scholars can meet other researchers and scholars, discuss their ideas, show and compare their work, and create networks across different fields of research.The Early Bird registration fee for the full four days is €200, and €100 for students. It can be paid online up until the 31st of March. On campus accommodation is available for anyone who wants to stay in UCD during the congress.The first call of papers was closed on the 31st of March.