Jane Gilheaney Barry, writer & lifestyle blogger Posted on January 7, 2024 by planirl
Jane Gilheaney Barry is a writer, pr and lifestyle blogger at www.thatcuriousloveofgreen.com
Between 2000 and 2010 Jane established and ran the Shaylyn Traditional Performing Arts Centre, Shaylyn Irish Dance Company and Gilheaney PR Consulting from her base in Ballinamore, Co Leitrim.
The aim of the Shaylyn Group was to generate social, cultural and economic development for the northwest and border counties region through the support and development of traditional dance, music and song.
Because I am a Girl I ask …that I be allowed the same freedoms and opportunities that boys enjoy, to learn, work, love, travel, exist freely and safely without danger, fear or reproach just because I’m a girl!
Because I am a Girl I believe…in the strength of girls that is evident in their will, creativity, compassion and indomitable spirit even in the face of terrible adversity, I believe girls are strong.
Because I am a Girl I hope…the world will change and that someday all people will share equality, freedom, fairness and justice.
Because I am a Girl I wonder…about my girl ancestors, how difficult life was for them, and I wonder what the world of the future will be like for my three daughters and their daughters.
Because I am a Girl I dream…of a world without limits, a world of education, creativity and beauty, a world where all people can share justice, equality and freedom (I’m a big dreamer!).
Because I am a Girl I remember…what it is like to be a cherished girl child, to have great role models in my parents and grandparents who respected each other equally, cherished all their children equally and would testify to the positive difference this has made in all our lives, what we have achieved, how we care for and respect each other, our legacy for future generations.
Because I am a Girl I like…pretty things! I like dressing up, shopping, glamour, make up and even the occasional chick flick!
Because I am a Girl I dislike…the still prevalent attitude in some areas of Irish society that when you are having a second or third child (or more!) that it’s because you want a boy when all you want is a healthy child and that if you don’t have a boy you must be disappointed!!! I do think this is changing but it’s an attitude that can still be found.
Because I am a Girl I feel…saddened at the plight of girls worldwide, daunted by the chasm of poverty, danger, the lack of opportunity that is the lot of so many and determined that this must change for the good of everyone
Because I am a Girl I celebrate…the girls of history and today who were and who are ahead of their time and who continue so courageously to forge a path for girls with their work, their achievements and their very lives.
- Jane Gilheaney Barry
