Out of the dark ages and into the light

Recently, it was announced that the state of California will introduce to its history curriculum transgender history. It's a wonderful day for those who look upon history as a hugely conservative, edited and flawed subject where we are never given the bigger picture of the day. This begs the question: why should their achievements be closeted purely because of their sexual orientation? In this day and age we are becoming more open and more welcoming to all people whether gay or straight. This makes me wonder if Ireland would ever follow suit and concentrate on gay Irish people who achieved and conquered social restrictions? In my opinion, this may not happen for a long, long time. While Ireland is beginning to shed its conservative identity there are still some people who hark back to the days of Catholic Ireland, the power of religion and the importance of marriage and procreation. With the Irish Presidential election looming and David Norris still remaining a powerful front runner, perhaps Norris if elected may use his influence and power to further universalize Ireland, to bring us out of the dark ages and create an identity for the country as one which is accessible and equal. It may happen, we just need to hope for the best.