Introduction to Druids For Justice
Dia dhaoibh a chairde.
Hello friends.
Many members of OBOD are concerned with issues around justice and activism. Discussions have focused on racial injustice and many other forms of environmental and social justice and activism.
We welcome these conversations for two reasons. First, they give us the chance to state again, and unambiguously, that OBOD is opposed to racism and to all other forms of injustice. We do not permit racism or the expression of any hatred within this group, or within any of our spaces. Second, they give us an opportunity to celebrate the tradition of political radicalism which runs through Druid history, from the earliest inspirers, such as Iolo Morganwg and William Price, through to the anti-frackers and racial justice activists of today. The passionate commitment of OBOD members to making the world a better and more sacred place is to be celebrated.
In November 2020, I asked OBOD members for contributions to create this section in the OBOD library, ‘Druids for Justice’, with the purpose of information and education about the problems and challenges faced in the Druid’s peacemaker task of addressing injustice.
In the contributions published here we hear the voices of OBOD members. The pieces reflect the reality lived by members directly affected by racism or other injustices, and how Druids have taken action to express their love of justice, in ways great or small. They tell their stories. They reflect the diversity of the Order. They tell how Druidry helps. They suggest what Druids can do.
Something I love and value about OBOD is that members don’t want to be told what to think or do. The whole Order and course provide a framework for each of us to find our own unique way of thinking and doing in all areas of our lives, to each be the Druid we can be. I hope that reading about others’ lived experience will be a source of inspiration to anyone reading this page.
I appreciate members taking the time to share their experience and suggestions, and I thank each and every one of you.
I intend this to be an evolving section of the library. You can send submissions or comments by email to justice@druidry.org. You should receive an auto-response to confirm that your message has been received.
May all our conversations together be held in a spirit of peace and love,
Beannachtaí agus Síocháin (Blessings and Peace)
Eimear /|\
