Red shoe demonstration on International Women’s Day highlights gender-based violence

228 red shoes were layed out in front of the old courthouse in Limerick City. Photo: Cian Reinhardt

A WALKOUT and march marking International Women’s Day saw a group of supporters make their way to Merchant’s Quay where a display of 228 red shoes stood on the steps of the old courthouse in the city.

The demonstration saw a group of supporters march from Thomas Street, Limerick City, to Merchant’s Quay as participant’s called for equality and an end to violence against women.

One of the event organisers, Leona O’Callaghan, explained why 228 red shoes and 16 pairs of white shoes were placed at the old courthouse in Limerick City:

“The 228 red shoes represent the women who lost their lives through violence in Ireland. And the 16 white shoes are for children who died alongside their mothers in Ireland.

“We had a minute’s silence here, and we thought of them today – but more so than just think of them, we think of what lessons are to be learned, what needs to change.”

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Ms O’Callaghan told the Limerick Post she has written to some of the local politicians and councillors asking for “strong political leadership in bringing about some change, to give us protection and to stand with our men in an equal way”.

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