In April 1914, Cumann na mBan, one of the most important women’s organisations in modern Irish history was formed. A new documentary will air Sunday March 8, at 7.15pm.
Moreover it was the most important women’s organisation in the revolutionary decade of 1912-1923.
Between 1914 and 1923, thousands of Cumann na mBan women participated in the nationalist struggle. However much of the work and activities of the Cumann na mBan women has been forgotten or overlooked. This documentary brings the contribution of nationalist women under the spotlight.
The film reveals how the bitter anti-treaty split in Cumann na mBan in 1922 meant that women were not able to make an effective stand against the gendered legislation - culminating in the 1937 Constitution - of the Irish Free State.
Contributors include Dr Margaret Ward, Aindrias Ó Cathasaigh, Dr Mary McAuliffe, Máire Harris, Pádraig Ó Concubhair and Cal Mc Carthy. The documentary is narrated by Mary McAleese.
