12th July. A Republican Tradition

There are heartwarming scenes all across the north of the country this evening. As a republican it joyful to know that the cause of liberty, equality and fraternity is alive and kicking in the north of the island. A sense of history and internationalism is also clearly evident from the glorious celebrations taking place. Street corners are illuminated with colour and there is a sense of excitement in the air. What else could it be but the red, white and blue to celebrate Bastille Day. That fateful day, from which sprung the cause of republicanism throughout the world, is being celebrated all across Ulster. So eager are they to celebrate the republican cause they march on the 12^th July, slightly earlier than the French. They cannot hold in their excitement as they march through the streets, holding aloft depictions of a king they too wish had gone to the guillotine. These ardent republicans will cry 'No Surrender' to emphasize their unflinching commitment to republicanism. Calling themselves the 'Orange Order' (after the fruit reportedly hated by Louis XVI), they are the most hardline of republicans. So as they march along the streets of Ireland we applaud their cries of Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité!