Angela Graham, a community leader in Drum, Co Monaghan, reports that Border Protestants have returned to a state of cautious silence following a wave of sectarian abuse last year. The backlash targeted the Drum Accordion Band and local woman Heather Humphreys after media focus shifted to the Orange Order connections of Humphreys’ husband, Eric.
Sectarian Backlash Against Heather Humphreys and Drum Community
The controversy began when the Daily Mail highlighted the membership of Eric Humphreys in the Orange Order during the years preceding The Troubles. According to Angela Graham, this triggered “vicious social trolling” where Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys was described as an “Orange bitch” and deemed unfit to be the State’s first citizen.
The abuse extended beyond the political campaign to the Drum Accordion Band. The band organizes an annual July picnic coinciding with the Twelfth, a holiday commemorating the 1690 victory of King William of Orange. Graham describes the experience as “blatant sectarianism” that left the community “shocked to the core.”
The Impact of Silence in Border Protestant Communities
Graham states that the current atmosphere mirrors the era of The Troubles, when Border Protestants remained silent to survive. She notes that many in the community lost family members who served in the RUC or British Army, comparing these roles to those who joined the guards in Cork.
While the village previously welcomed visitors from universities and political organizations following the 1998 Belfast Agreement, Graham says those visitors “kept silent” during the recent attacks. She expresses disappointment that leaders including Taoiseach Micheál Martin, former president Michael D Higgins, and Catherine Connolly did not offer public support.
Political Handling and the Future of the Drum Parade
Graham criticized Fine Gael’s campaign management, calling it “foolish” for not being more upfront about Humphreys’ family heritage, which includes a grandfather who was a member of the Ulster Volunteers a century ago. She asserts that Orange Order membership among Border farming families was historically as common as GAA membership for Catholics.
As the community prepares for this year’s Twelfth celebrations, Graham is unsure if the previous controversy will affect attendance at the annual parade. However, she confirms the event will proceed with its tradition of music and food to signal that visitors are welcome.
Graham suggests these events may make some residents more cautious. She stated that people who were previously open to conversations about a united Ireland may no longer be interested due to the “racist and sectarian behaviour” witnessed last year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Twelfth in Drum?
It is an Ulster Protestant holiday celebrated on July 12th that commemorates the 1690 victory of Protestant King William of Orange over Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne.
Who is Angela Graham?
Graham is a figurehead in the Drum community, a leader in the Drum Accordion Band, and the former manager of the Clones Family Resource Centre.
How did the community react to the social media abuse?
According to Graham, the villagers agreed to say nothing and respond to nothing, with Graham being the only person prepared to speak with the media a year later.
Do you believe national political campaigns should more proactively address the cultural heritage of candidates to prevent community backlash?
