‘Grá na hÉireann’ – A Symbol of Solidarity, Justice, and Love: A New Original Art Piece by Sanaa El Habbash, commissioned by Ireland Says Welcome with funding from the Irish Network Against Racism (INAR).
Comhlámh’s Ireland Says Welcome member group has just released a powerful new piece of art. The group commissioned a Palestinian artist, Sanaa El Habbash, who created a piece titled ‘Grá na hÉireann’ – which translates as ‘Ireland’s Love’ and ‘Love of Ireland’. This artwork carries profound significance as it symbolises reclaiming the Irish flag, as an emblem of solidarity, peace and justice.
The inspiration behind the title is deeply rooted in the concept of love – love for the land, love for all the people who are hosted by and grow with this land, and love for peace. It acknowledges the diversity and warmth of Ireland, and our commitment to Ireland being a place where everyone, regardless of who they are or where they have lived, can thrive together. The white stripe in the Irish flag, a representation of peace, is a powerful reminder of the values Ireland was founded upon, values we strive to uphold today. ‘Grá na hÉireann’ not only celebrates love for Ireland but also underscores our country’s history of showing solidarity with global struggles for justice, including the ongoing fight to uphold the rights and dignity of asylum seekers and migrants. This sentiment resonates with Ireland’s long-standing tradition of welcoming and advocating for those in need, and this artwork stands as a visual testament to those values.
At this critical time in our nation’s evolution, and with the upcoming general election, we would like to use the launch of ‘Grá na hÉireann’ to reiterate our appeal made to Taoiseach Simon Harris in our letter to him on World Refugee Day 2024, that he resist the politicisation of migration. All of us, including our political leaders, must examine our complicity in systems of harm and find ways to honour our legal and moral responsibilities to those seeking international protection. By commissioning this piece from Sanaa El Habbash, an artist deeply connected to Palestine’s resistance, Ireland Says Welcome has woven a narrative that connects Ireland’s story with global movements for freedom, dignity, and peace. The artwork encourages reflection on what it means to be part of a community that embraces diversity and fights for justice, not just locally or nationally, but globally.
Through ‘Grá na hÉireann,’ the Irish flag is reclaimed not just as a national symbol but as a universal emblem of unity, peace, and love for all. The piece is now available for download by request – simply email Julia@comhlamh.org.
Prints will soon be released as stickers and cards. We encourage you to display it in your offices, colleges, and other spaces to show support for Ireland’s values of inclusivity and peace.
Ireland Says Welcome Member Group would like to thank INAR for their financial support with this project.