Senator David Norris launches ‘Minority Voices, Major Changes’ exhibition as part of Seanad100 centenary celebrations

The exhibition in the Leinster House foyer is the first in a series of public exhibitions to highlight the life and work of Senators who have championed minority issues since the first Seanad in 1922.

The Cathaoirleach said: “The ‘Minority Voices, Major Changes’ exhibition aims to highlight the unique role that Seanad Éireann and so many Senators played in helping shape our country since that first sitting of the Seanad in December 1922. One of the roles of the First Seanad was to give a platform for representation to the Protestant and Unionist community, who found themselves as a minority voice in the new State.

“Over the last 100 years this transitioned into voices representing other minority communities and minority opinions, often leading to major change in our country. This exhibition reminds us how much impact an individual can have in championing minority community and minority causes by harnessing the power of being a member of Seanad Éireann in our national parliament. In that context, I am delighted Senator David Norris was willing once again to support Seanad 100 as he so befits the kind of person we are celebrating here today.

“‘Minority Voices, Major Changes’ is both the theme of this exhibition and of the wider Seanad100 centenary programme. The Senators captured in this exhibition highlight the broad, diverse and inclusive role of the Seanad from its first sitting a century ago. However, it is not a full representation of those who have served.

“I would encourage people to explore the various outreach and education initiatives running throughout the year ahead to learn more about the Seanad and the many distinguished senators who have had lasting impacts on our nation and our everyday lives.

“For those who can visit Leinster House now that it is open to the public again following the Covid-19 restrictions, this exhibition will be included in tours of the building.”

Further details on the Minority Voices, Major Changes exhibition and the Seanad100 programme can be found online at www.oireachtas.ie/Seanad100.

View photos from todays launch on the Oireachtas Flickr account.