Continuing our partnership with Fréa’s Renewing Roots programme, this screening of Testimony has been supported by the Government of Ireland’s Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. About: Testimony is a profoundly moving documentary that chronicles the fight for justice by survivors of Ireland's Magdalene Laundries and Mother and Baby Homes. Directed by Aoife Kelleher, produced by Rachel Lysaght and Farah Abushwesha, Testimony captures the determination of these women, supported by the advocacy group Justice for Magdalenes (JFM) to hold the Irish government accountable for decades of institutional abuse. From grassroots campaigning to delivering powerful testimony at the United Nations, their journey is a testament to the strength of collective action and the enduring impact of these dark chapters in Irish history.
From the Magdalene Laundries to the Mother and Baby Homes, Irish women were imprisoned, exploited and stripped of their children by religious orders, with the full complicity of the state. Their stories were buried. Their suffering was silenced.
Testimony follows Justice for Magdalenes (JFM) and the survivors who refused to stay quiet. From mass graves at High Park to the floor of the UN Committee Against Torture, this is the story of a campaign that forced the world to listen and of women who reclaimed their own narratives against every effort to erase them.
Unflinching, urgent and ultimately hopeful, Testimony is a tribute to resilience, a demand for accountability, and a stark reminder of what silence costs.
A post-screening conversation will take place following the film, providing space for questions and reflection, to which all attendees are warmly invited.
This event has been organised as a commemorative event by Renewing Roots, with funding from the Government of Ireland (DCEDIY Commemorative Grant Scheme). Fréa is funded — with thanks to the Irish Government — via the Irish Embassy in London’s Emigrant Support Programme.
Testimony is presented by Fis Éireann/Screen Ireland, UK Global Screen Fund, Arte, RTÉ, Coimisiún na Meán, Rialtas na hÉireann/Government of Ireland, Rocliffe, Underground Films and BFI. Care note: We recommend that anyone with lived experience of institutional abuse, forced adoption, or the Magdalene Laundries and Mother and Baby Homes considers carefully whether this work is right for them at this time. Testimony contains themes, such as forced incarceration, sexual, physical, mental and verbal abuse that some viewers may find distressing, as such viewer discretion is urged when booking. Trained mental health first aiders will be available for support before, during and after the screening. A list of external organisations that can offer support can be found here: https://www.liverpoolirishfestival.com/contact/advisory-support-services/