EPIC Museum appoints a new DFAT Historian-in-Residence
News
26 June 2020
Dr Maurice J Casey
Dr Maurice J. Casey as EPIC Museum's new Historian-in-Residence. In his new role, which is funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dr Casey will carry out pioneering research in the field of migration and diaspora studies.
“Maurice Casey is an excellent addition to the EPIC team. His talents, knowledge and experience will enable EPIC to explore fascinating and little known aspects of Irish diaspora history. He will enrich our programme of events, exhibitions, publications and public programmes. His appointment represents a continuation of EPIC’s highly successful collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.” said Dr Patrick Greene, Museum Director and CEO of EPIC.
The Historian-in-Residence position was renewed for 2020 as part of an ongoing partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Minister for the Diaspora, Ciarán Cannon T.D. welcomed the appointment: “Our partnership with EPIC is an important aspect of our engagement with the global Irish Diaspora. EPIC’s role in researching and promoting the experiences and lives of the many Irish who left our shores illuminates our past and strengthens our connection to the Irish Diaspora. I’m pleased to support the appointment of a new Historian-in-Residence to continue this work”.
Dr Casey is a historian with a special focus on studying social movements in modern Ireland, as well as the Irish diaspora’s contributions to activism around the globe. His research has explored the lives of 20th century Irish rebels and writers involved in movements abroad, from San Francisco to Siberia.
Dr Casey recently completed his DPhil at Oxford University and holds degrees from both Cambridge University and Trinity College. In 2019, he was a Fulbright visiting researcher at Stanford University.
For the next year, he will join the team at EPIC to develop a series of exhibitions, workshops and lectures. His in-depth research will be conducted with an aim to increase awareness and understanding of Ireland’s shared history.
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Casey said, “I’m looking forward to helping the team at EPIC highlight diverse and challenging histories of the Irish abroad. I’m particularly excited to explore lesser-known diaspora stories, such as the experiences of Irish LGBTQ+ emigrants.”
He also intends to study how the Irish diaspora has interacted with other diaspora communities throughout history.
The Historian-in-Residence position was renewed for 2020 as part of an ongoing partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
EPIC’s first Historian-in-Residence, Dr Angela Byrne, increased understanding of Irish emigration at home and abroad. During her year-long residency, she curated exhibitions on pioneering Irish diaspora women, the seafaring Irish and Irish educators abroad, which toured Irish embassies around the world.
Dr Casey will now bring his in-depth knowledge to this unique role, spearheading new research and developing strong relationships with the global Irish community.
