Over the next few months we will run a series of blog posts to introduce you to the storytellers and respondents working on the project. Each week will focus on a specific pair, their experiences and aspirations for their contribution. This week we start with participants in our first thematic workshop on Criminal Responsibility which takes place on the 23rd of September. You can find out more about the event here. 

 My name is John Michael Kidney.

I am from Ireland.

I have experience of many aspects of life, as Son, Brother, Uncle, Conformist, Madman, Renegade, Rebel, Radical. I write a little and think a lot. I am interested in the ethics of being a human on this planet.

I want to share a story about my involvement with the law in Ireland

My 7 word autobiography is: Human, Respect, Rights, Equal, Justice, Difference, Change

I joined the VOICES project because, firstly, I was asked to by one of those working on the ERC VOICES project, Liz Brosnan. I had only a hazy idea of what was being sought but as I respect Liz and the work she is involved with I agreed to get involved. There was an initial seminar where I gave my story and I met many interesting people there. As I spoke and listened to those there I began to see the true value and importance of the project which is, I believe, to navigate a potential course for the CRPD in relation to human rights not only for those with mental or intellectual difficulties but for all citizens of the world. The CRPD is that important, in my view and, being realistic, it may take 100 years or more before the rights it espouses are fully realised. I feel privileged to be part of the ongoing struggle to see it fully implemented and for Human rights in their totality to be fully respected

What was your favourite part of the first workshop?

I enjoyed the writing workshop which caused me to shine light and reflect on areas of my life which I had previously hidden or ignored.

What are you hoping to learn from the project?

I am hoping to learn more about the CRPD nnd the guiding principles behind legal systems across the world. Also, to appreciate better what we humans should consider valuable in each other and, hopefully, learn how to influence the ways we negotiate our social arrangements in the light of those values