‘I'll wear no convicts uniform” – 50th anniversary event to be held this weekend
During the event, blanketmen from Counties Derry and Antrim will give an account of the prison struggle within Armagh Goal
To mark the 50th anniversary of Kieran Nugent’s historic refusal to wear a prison uniform, which began what would become known as the ‘blanket protest’, an event will be held on Saturday, August 22 in the Elk Complex, beginning at 8pm sharp.
Speaking ahead of the event, Sinn Féin Councillor Ian Milne said: “This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and determination shown by those who stood against Margaret Thatcher’s policy of criminalisation and the removal of political status.
“The event will feature a conversation led by Laurence McKeown, a former blanketman and hunger striker. He will be joined by other blanketmen from Counties Derry and Antrim including Joe Corey and Henry Cushinan, as well as Síle Darragh who will give an account of the prison struggle within Armagh Goal.
“Together, they will share personal reflections of their experiences during that period, offering insight into the daily realities of protest, resistance, and solidarity within the H-Blocks and Armagh.
“An overview of the political and historical context of the blanket protest will be provided by Raymond McCartney, also a former blanketman and hungerstriker followed by a night of music by The Patriot Flame.”