Sir, - I am currently designing a research project which examines the social and personal histories of black Irish people who have lived some part of their lives either in the Irish Republic or in Northern Ireland. I am trying to get a handle on what it has been like to live or grow up both black and Irish in this island. I am particularly interested in the racial experiences of those belonging to this group.
If any of your readers belonging to this neglected Irish minority wishes to share his/her experiences with me, could they write to the address below? All I require at this stage is a brief note (with a contact address or telephone number) expressing willingness to talk with me. All correspondence will be treated in the strictest confidence. - Yours, etc.,
Dr Jim MacLaughlin, Geography Department, University College Cork.