After a long wait to get CSC recognition, the Dublin University Pagan Society has finally become the newest society to join the ranks of the CSC.
The University Times caught up with the society’s committee at their stand today during the freshers’ fair in Front Square. Adorned with relics and patterned cloth, the stand really stood out among the sea of tents and tables in Front Square.
Morgane Lahidji, the society’s Public Relations Officer, set the society up with four friends upon discovering that they all share a similar interest. Lahidji has connections in the Irish pagan network who helped to bring these people together. “My friend often says that uniting pagans is like trying to unite a herd of cats”, Lahidji laughs as she tells the story of how the society came into being.
Lahidji, who moved to Ireland from France, described how France is a “fundamentally rational country”, and that coming to Ireland has been an eye-opening experience in relation to her paganism. Speaking about Ireland’s history of Paganism, Lahidji describes how Ireland is a “very powerful country” and that evidence of our pagan history is palpable in many parts of the country: “For example, when people don’t build roads on fairy rings of fairy forts as a sign of respect of the country’s heritage.”
Despite Ireland’s pagan history, Lahidji feels that there is still some amount of stigma attached to paganism. Diversity and inclusivity are important to the Pagan Society, and Lahidji expresses a wish for more tolerance. “A space within Trinity to practice religion or spirituality is needed here. Having a safe space helps to ground you”, says Lahidji, explaining the importance that religion does hold to a lot of people in our society.
Still, the society has gained over 40 new members in their first few days, and plan on luring in more secretly practicing pagans during term time. “There really are more than you think”, says Lahidji. During our chat, four different students wandered over to the society stand and expressed an interesting in learning more about paganism and becoming a member of the society.
The society will have their first event this evening in room 3126 of the Arts Block. Called Paganism 101, the event aims to educate people about pagan practices and what exactly it means to be a pagan in today’s world. Drop by the Pagan Society stand for more information!
