One Million Stars to End Violence Project display in Nenagh

ASCEND NTDC and Cuan Saor Refuge and Support Services (South Tipperary) would like to invite individuals to view the One Million Stars to End Violence Project display in the Nenagh Arts Centre, which will continue to be displayed until March 21st.

The One Million Stars to End Violence Project was established by Maryann Talia Pau, a Samoan-Australian artist, in response to the rape and murder of an Irish woman in Melbourne, Australia. In Samoan culture, the star is a symbol of light, hope and solidarity. The project used star weaving to rebuild trust within the community. In 2020 Siobhan McQuillan working with Amber Women’s Refuge, brought the project to Kilkenny. Since then, it has been extended to many counties and in 2021 both Ascend NTDC and Cuan Saor Refuge and Support Services (South Tipperary) felt it was a project that would raise awareness of both services in Co. Tipperary ensuring that women who are experiencing domestic violence are fully aware that there is help within their community.

There are now star weaving communities in 18 counties across Ireland. Together with groups, businesses, and individual star weavers across the country they have already woven 100,000 stars to end violence in Ireland. Tipperary has woven 14,000 stars!

Both Ascend NTDC and Cuan Saor have been busy over the past few months distributing packs to groups and schools and the project was launched on November 25th last to coincide with the 16 days of activism campaign on November 25th. Many groups have embraced the project with great energy. The stars were displayed on March 8th, 2022 (International Women’s Day).

Kathleen Maher spoke at the launch to say “I would like to thank Ute Duggan for building the display and bringing this concept to life. I would also like to thank Emma Daly, our Volunteer Co-ordinator, who was exemplary in bringing this project together.”

Ascend would like to acknowledge the following groups and schools who took part in star weaving.

 Colaiste Mhuire, Thurles.

 Joseph’s College, Borrisoleigh.

 Borrisokane Community College.

 St Cronan’s Association service users who attend Mary Gill House in Springfort, Nenagh.

 Nenagh Craft Group.

 Barnardos TLC Kidz Mother’s Group.

 Roscrea Youth Project.

 And special gratitude to St. Mary’s School, Nenagh & Ms. for star weaving and creating the display.

Kathleen Maher added “I would also like to thank The Cathaoirleach of Nenagh District – Michael O’Meara for opening the exhibit and Eva Birdthistle of Nenagh Arts Centre for her support in organising the event. Finally, I would like to thank the funders of the project – Healthy Ireland represented today by Dan Downey and NTDC SICAP team represented by Joanne McCarthy”.

Ascend is a domestic violence support service based in North Tipperary as part of North Tipperary Development Company (NTDC). Ascend provides a comprehensive support and advocacy service in North Tipperary. If you wish to contact them, you can do so by phoning their helpline at (0505) 23999 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm).