Pavee Point Traveller & Roma Centre was delighted to host the launch of the 2nd edition of Helen Hutchinson’s Poetry Collection – ‘From the Dirt Lane Back to the Open Roads’. Helen spoke, at the launch, of how her poetry tells the story, not only of her family – but also of the Traveller community as a whole.
Helen’s poetry is inspired by her family and talks of the many losses her family has experienced as Travellers – often through racism and discrimination.
Helen’s poetry also reflects the resilience of the Traveller community as her work gives voice to pride in Traveller identity and also celebrates the Traveller language CANT/GAMMON.
“I want my poetry to inspire younger Travellers,” said Helen “We can learn to express ourselves through writing and writing can help people get through difficult situations.”
Helen’s collection was launched by Anastasia Crickley, chairperson of Pavee Point and longtime friend of Helen’s along with Mervyn Ennis who was also involved in establishing Traveller rights organisations in the 1980s. Helen Hutchinson took part in the first training programme organised by Dublin Traveller Education Development Group in 1985 (now Pavee Point), along with other Traveller activists of today.
Helen’s book is available for €15 in selected bookshops and by contacting info@pavee.ie.
