Ruth Archer, have you ever been persecuted for you religion?.. I have
Were you brought up in a sectarian society?.. Well I was
I was brought up in and around Glasgow, and let me tell you, sectarianism is/was as rife in the west of Scotland, as it is in the Sick Counties.
I decided a long time ago, to be grown up about it, and not to take sides.
I am in favour of letting people celebrate old victories, all countries do it. I am also in favour of a united Ireland, it makes sense, and would right a wrong that is almost 90 years old.
Whether you use Londonderry or Derry, immediately betrays your leanings on the matter, so I find it best to call it both or refrain.
It really is an emotional minefield, and I suggest that rose tinted, or any other tint of spectacles, is not the best way to look at this question.