Louise McSharry: Why reclaiming the Tricolour would help us strip it of its power as a racist dog whistle
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Louise McSharry: Why reclaiming the Tricolour would help us strip it of its power as a racist dog whistle
"While Gen Z's love of Irish symbolism feels joyful and inclusive, recent use of the Tricolour feels territorial and aggressive. Every day on the internet, silly little fights happen. If you're not someone in the "chronically online" category, you might not be privy to this, and to you I say "what's it like to be mentally well?" and also "allow me to explain"."
"The fight begins with someone feeling slighted. They perceive that someone else has done something wrong, and righteously post about said wrongdoing. The wrong-doer responds, stating their position and (usually) innocence."
Gen Z embraces Irish symbolism with joyful, inclusive expression while recent public displays of the Tricolour convey territorial and aggressive tones. Everyday online life includes small, rapid conflicts triggered by perceived slights that lead users to post accusations. Accused parties typically respond by asserting their position and claiming innocence. Many interactions unfold in public, escalating minor grievances into wider performative disputes. The contrast between playful cultural symbols and national flags used as markers of dominance reveals shifting norms around identity, belonging, and the performative nature of contemporary online arguments.
Read at Independent
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