Together For Yes organisers honoured in TIME’s 100 most influential people of 2018 list

“The women’s movement in Ireland was at the centre of change nationally."

The Together For Yes organisers have been honoured in TIME's 100 most influential people of 2018 list. Grainne Griffin, Orla O'Connor, and Ailbhe Smyth acted as co-directors of last year's pro-choice campaign that led to the eventual legalisation of abortion in Ireland. TIME included the women in this year's list of the world's most influential people, saying that their "incredible tenacity and integrity and courageousness will be an inspiration for generations to come." "The campaign to repeal the Eighth Amendment to the Irish constitution, put the Mná na hÉireann (women of Ireland) front, center and in control of their own bodies and rights like never before," Irish actor Ruth Negga wrote in the magazine. https://twitter.com/Together4yes/status/1118485662913769472 "It was breathtaking to witness the determination, intelligence and sheer hard work of its leaders who mobilized people of all different backgrounds in the lead-up to the vote. They put the experiences of women and the needs of their country first." Smyth said that she and her former co-directors are "honoured" to have been included in the list. She also said that the campaign to repeal the Eighth Amendment was a "real boost for the morale of pro-choice campaigners around the world."

“As a small country on the edge of a rich, powerful continent, our voice is not loud. But last year’s referendum showed just how far it can reach. "In repealing the Eighth Amendment, Ireland bucked a trend. In countries like the USA, Poland, and even Germany, we are seeing the backlash against women’s reproductive rights intensifying.  My hope is that our global recognition by TIME helps inspire those fighting for reproductive rights worldwide."

O'Connor said that TIME's accolade is recognition of 35 years of hard work that put women's experiences at the centre of the movement. “This was a moment in time when, led by women, our nation collectively stood up, and rejected a cruel past, where thousands of women were subjected – unnecessarily – to ill-health, shame, distress and judgement," she said. “Women’s rights are always hard fought, and hard won, yet the success of the Together for Yes campaign can act as a light for those still fighting for their rights." Also included in this year's list are Michelle Obama, Jacinda Ardern, Richard Madden, and Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. You can read the full list here.