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There has hardly been a more gripping and moving period in the history of modern Irish political activism than the 1967 Civil Rights Movement in Ulster.

For a time the ideology, slogans and songs of the international peace and nonviolent protest movements of the 1960s held the Northern stage from Belfast to Derry, but not for long.

The campaign and its violent aftermath, littered and shattered dreams, is the subject of this powerful, insightful statement by Fermanagh songwriter Mickey McConnell.

lyrics

We knew we faced the power that comes from money
When we marched against the empire's mighty schemes
They were armed with special powers and legislation
While we were armed with youth and foolish dreams

But it seemed so right in Derry all that summer
When we took them on and built our barricades
We were an army dressed in faded jeans and sandals
Too young and full of pride to be afraid

And we believed in things like justice, truth, and freedom
And we believed we had a right to liberty
And we believed that we could build a new tomorrow
That's how it seemed to Peter Pan and me.

But we soon learned the truth of street rebellion
As our city crumbled round us stone by stone
Betrayed by those who promised they would help us
Against tanks, and troops, and guns we stood alone.

For revolution is no game for foolish dreamers
For dreamers never know the price that must be paid
Before long we learned all power comes from a rifle
And we learned to bleed and die and be afraid.

And soon no one spoke of justice, truth, or freedom
And soon no one gave one damn for liberty
And all we hoped was that we might go on surviving
We grew up fast, young Peter Pan and me.

Then the empire dealt us death and fear and prison
There's no mercy from that military machine
And our street kids swapped their faded jeans and sandals
For hoods and guns with loaded magazines.

And now the years have wrought their cruel retribution
And our brothers and our sisters bear the pain
As both sides strive for violent solutions
And the politicians play their deadly games.

And among the dead lie justice, truth, and freedom
And among the dead lie hope and liberty
But if you care enough about brave new tomorrows
Pull up a chair, join Peter Pan and me.

Words and Music by Mickey McConnell (Elm Grove Music)

credits

from Kilkelly, released January 19, 2022
Mick Moloney: vocals, guitar
Robbie O’Connell: harmony vocals, guitar
Jimmy Keane: elkavox

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Mick Moloney, Robbie O'Connell, and Jimmy Keane image

Mick Moloney, Robbie O'Connell, and Jimmy Keane

Since 1984, Mick Moloney, Robbie O'Connell, and Jimmy Keane have been delighting audiences with their unique blend of Irish music and song, both traditional and contemporary. An evening with this trio is an experience that covers much musical ground and is not easily forgotten. ... more

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