Hello everyone! As I continue my journey here in Dublin, Ireland, I’ve been reflecting on the concept of solidarity within communities. This week’s blog post for the Global Scholars Program at Florida State University (FSU) focuses on what solidarity looks like in my community and the communal issues where it becomes most evident.
In my research at University College Dublin (UCD), where I’m working on building a custom large language model (LLM) for digital forensics, solidarity is a cornerstone. My team, consisting of myself, my program instructor, and a PhD student, exemplifies solidarity through our collaborative efforts. Despite our diverse backgrounds and expertise, we are united in our goal to create an accessible tool that will benefit law enforcement agencies worldwide.
This shared mission fosters a sense of unity and mutual support. We constantly learn from each other, share resources, and provide emotional and professional support, which is crucial in tackling the complex challenges of digital forensics.
Solidarity extends beyond our research team to the broader community in Dublin. One of the most striking examples of solidarity here is the collective response to the ongoing strike by Aer Lingus employees. The strike, driven by the demand for a raise that employees haven’t received since before the COVID-19 pandemic, has highlighted the importance of solidarity in the face of economic and labor challenges. The Aer Lingus strike is a testament to solidarity. Employees are standing together to demand fair wages and better working conditions, and the community is showing support through various means, including news and social media campaigns.
On a more personal note, I’ve seen solidarity in action through my interactions with other UCD students and locals. Recently, there have been many Palestine protests on campus. While I haven’t personally participated, I admire the determination and unity of the students involved. Their commitment to raising awareness and advocating for change is a powerful example of solidarity in action.
Solidarity in our community is not just a concept but a lived experience. Whether through collaborative research efforts, community responses to crises, or everyday acts of kindness, the spirit of solidarity is what binds us together. As I continue my research and adventures in Dublin, I am inspired by the collective strength and unity I see around me.
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