We are delighted that the radio documentary, “Silence Would Be treason” was named a finalist for the New York Festivals Documentary Award in the Human Rights Category.
The book, Silence Would Be Treason, Last Writings of Ken Saro-Wiwa features the private letters written by Ken Saro-Wiwa to Sister Majella McCarron OLA while he was on death row, and includes a selection of his poems.
The letters were smuggled out of his detention centre by Sr Majella in bread baskets, and they document the extraordinary and enduring friendship between the two. They provide first hand insight into Ken Saro-Wiwa’s courageous efforts to protect the Niger Delta against the environmental degradation of the land and waters of Ogoniland by the operations of the multinational petroleum industry, especially the Royal Dutch Shell company.
The letters also addressed the growing political instability in Nigeria, his hopes for peace in Northern Ireland, and his passion for peace and justice throughout the world.
The letters were donated by Sister Majella to Maynooth University in 2011. The book was edited by Dr Íde Corley, Helen Fallon and Dr Laurence Cox of Maynooth University.
You can listen to the documentary here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0bgr02h
Bairbre Flood – Producer
Noo Saro-Wiwa – Presenter
Ben Arogundade – Voice Actor
New York Festivals Radio Awards honors radio content in all lengths and formats and across all platforms from radio stations, networks, and independent producers from around the globe. Embracing all aspects of the Radio and Audio industries, categories mirror today’s global trends and encourage the next generation of story-tellers by recognizing innovators in our 14 Category Groups: News Programs, News Reports/Features, Documentary, Entertainment, Talk Programs, On-Air Talent, Craft, Programming Format, Morning Drive/Afternoon Programming, Promotion Spots/Opens & IDs, Digital, Audio Books, Podcasts and Student.
Credit: Missionary Sisters of Our Lady o Appostles
