Belfast artist's exhibition is an inspiration

I write to commend Kate Hallahan on her interesting article on a groundbreaking exhibition taking place in Belfast (Irish Examiner, July 15).

At Linen Hall Library, Belfast, the exhibition offers insights into the history of communities on both sides of the divide, along with an impressive display of quirky memorabilia from life in the North.

The display includes babies’ bibs with “Proud to be a Prod” and a learn-your-alphabet book for republican children that coaches A is for Armalite.

Such grassroots intervention and education has been extremely successful in divided communities across the globe, from Macedonia to the American South, and, in many ways, can be more effective than macro-political manoeuvring.

The exhibition has also a vital role when one keeps in mind the phrase: “Those who forget the lessons of history are doomed to repeat it”.

Let such grassroots initiatives act as a reminder to the people of the North of what life will return to if positive attempts at peace aren’t made.

Martin Cullen,

Pomona,

Glasheen Rd,

Cork City.