Unionists invited to Dungiven AOH

In an unprecedented move for County Londonderry, the St. Canice’s AOH Division 442 are holding the event with the specific aim of addressing “the lack of awareness among the wider community of what the AOH is all about.”

The Dungiven Hibernians decided to run the event because they say that “no similar activity, on this scale has been previously held in the County.” The organisation are keen to stress that the event is “open to all and the members are keen to encourage attendance from all sectors of the community.”

Asked if members of the Protestant, Unionist community would be welcome at the event, Anna McCloskey, the Division Secretary said: “Of, course - absolutely. That is what the whole event is all about.”

The St Canices Division are hosting a display of AOH Memorabilia and banners, concluding with a talk on the history of the AOH and a question and answer session. The display will be held in St Canices Hall, Lower Main Street, Dungiven on August 11 and 12.

The exhibition will give members of the public the opportunity to come along and view the beautiful art work of Hibernian Banners of local interest, as well as sashes, drums, rosettes, badges and membership certificates. Also during the exhibition and talk, visitors will learn about the significance of the imagery and symbols synonymous with the Hibernian tradition, its historical origins and its current planned future activities.

The event will take place in the run up to the Assumption Day parade in Dungiven on August 15, 2012. It will be the St. Canice’s division’s first time to host the parade.

John O’Kane (Division Treasurer) is keen to promote the event and encourage as many people as possible to attend the exhibition or talk: “We have assembled a very impressive collection of historical and contemporary items relevant to the AOH. As a member of the Order, I am very conscious of the lack of awareness among the wider community of what the AOH is really about. “There is a great need to share our history and dispel the myths and half truths about the Hibernians. The history talk and open session will be a good opportunity for an exchange of views with people of all beliefs and outlooks in our area. The members of St Canices AOH will welcome everyone and value their comments and input.”

If anyone has items of Hibernian interest, they wish to loan for the exhibition or donate to St Canice’s AOH they can contact Anna McCloskey, Division Secretary on 07871248443 or John O’Kane, Division Treasurer on 07746236369.