The People’s Flag: Hurler, writer and activist Zak Moradi on what the tricolour means to him

Then Minister of State James Browne TD with Zak Moradi as he received his Irish citizenship in 2021

1 What does the Irish flag symbolise to you personally, and how does it reflect Irish identity?

The Irish flag symbolises to me that Ireland is a place for inclusion and peace and how proud I am to call Ireland my home. I was born into war in a refugee camp in Iraq due to my family’s displacement from our home in Kurdistan of Iran. I think of the Irish people who have struggled for their freedom over centuries similar to the Kurds.

2 How do you think the tricolour represents the shared values and aspirations of the Irish people?

I think the tricolour flag represents the comraderie and diversity of the Irish people and how Ireland is a place that is becoming very multicultural. I take huge pride in being a part of this country and embracing the Irish culture.

3 Can you share a moment or memory when the Irish flag had a particularly powerful meaning for you?

The Irish flag has held many great moments for me but receiving my Irish citizenship in 2021 was the proudest day of my life. I never held a passport before so to be able to finally feel like I belong in this country was a very special day for me.

4 How do you believe the Irish flag can continue to unite and inspire people in modern times?

The Irish flag symbolises peace and unity and I think it’s an important message to unite people of all nationalities in this country. I think of the Irish people and how they welcomed my family in 2002 and how much they have done for so many other refugees/asylum seekers. I think it can inspire people who are not originally from this country to embrace the Irish culture and get involved in things like the GAA.

5 Can you share a moment when you felt particularly proud or connected to the Irish flag?

I would have to say winning the Lory Meagher Cup in Croke Park 2019 with the Leitrim hurling team made me so proud to be a part of the culture and the GAA community in Ireland.