Earlier this year Trinity College Dublin announced it would “dename” its Berkeley Library because of the links to slavery of its namesake, 18th century philosopher George Berkeley.
The news sparked debate about when it is right to change the historic name of a building or institution.
Irish Times columnist Fintan O’Toole argues that the dozen or so GAA clubs named after 19th century Irish nationalist John Mitchel should also rename themselves, due to Mitchel’s support for slavery and his trenchant racism.
But if we start renaming things, how will we know where to stop? When is it necessary and when is it simply impractical? And why was John Mitchel such a racist, anyway?
Flu: More than 1,000 people expected in hospital with peak projected for Christmas week
Man who died after car skidded off Cork road into river had recently become father for second time
US justice department under fire for removing Trump image from Epstein files
Australian PM booed at memorial event for Bondi Beach attack victims
Fintan O’Toole talks to Bernice Harrison.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon. This episode was originally published in May 2023.
