PEOPLE ACROSS Ireland are being called on to take part in a new initiative created to pay respect to frontline workers fighting against coronavirus and those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
At 9pm this Saturday, April 11, the Irish public is urged to light a candle, torch or even a set of Christmas lights in tribute to those “keeping us going through these dark times”.
The “Shine Your Light” campaign will see some of Ireland’s most iconic buildings and embassies around the world lit up in an incredible show of collective strength and spirit.
Images of these brightly-lit buildings will be broadcast across all of RTÉ’s platforms as part of a night celebrating Ireland’s determination and togetherness in these testing times.
There will also be music and spoken word performances from the likes of Sinead O’Connor, Paula Meehan and Colm Mac Con Iomaire, broadcast on RTE Radio One.
Director General of RTE Dee Forbes said: “This global pandemic is affecting each and every person in our society so let’s come together for this moment where we can express solidarity with each other while we remain separated from friends and family.
“Let’s light up our homes or light a candle to remember all of those who have lost their lives to Covid-19 and their loved ones. Let’s also remember and thank our key frontline staff for their ongoing heroic work throughout this crisis.
“Light reaches across all boundaries and as we watch the light flicker, perhaps we will see a glimmer of hope, in this time of fear and distancing,” said Forbes.
President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina are among those joining initiative on Easter Saturday night by putting lights outside their home at Aras an Uachtarain paying tribute to those battling the disease.
“In keeping with the Easter message of hope, Irish people are being asked to place a light in their window tomorrow, the Saturday before Easter Sunday, a time so important in the symbolism of our Irish Independence.
“Sabina and I will light lanterns and place these at the doors in Aras an Uachtarain, symbolising our shared solidarity and offering a beacon of hope in a time of darkness.”
Join Michael, Sabina and countless others by shining a light in your window at 9pm this Saturday, April 11, for the brave people all over Ireland facing this deadly virus head-on.
