The Galway Review mourns the loss of Margaretta D’Arcy, who passed away at the age of 91 in Galway

A renowned artist, writer, and peace activist, Margaretta D’Arcy, was a distinguished member of Aosdána and a fierce advocate for justice throughout her life. She was also a valued regular contributor and consultant to The Galway Review, and we were honoured to publish her poems on November 20, 2012.​

Born in London in 1934 to Irish and Russian-Jewish parentage, Margaretta’s life was shaped by a deep commitment to activism and artistic expression. She studied drama at Trinity College Dublin, and with her late husband, playwright John Arden, she created influential works that combined theatre and political engagement. Her novels Tell Them Everything and Awkward Corners, along with many plays broadcast on RTÉ and the BBC, challenged social and political injustices from Ireland to the wider world.​

Margaretta was a tireless peace campaigner, known for her opposition to the militarization of Shannon Airport and her participation in protests supporting Palestinian rights, often attending demonstrations with a walker. Her activism led to several prison sentences, including solitary confinement in Armagh, reflecting her unwavering commitment to civil disobedience. She was also deeply involved in feminist causes, anti-war activism, and environmental campaigns such as Shell to Sea in Mayo.​

In politics, she ran in Galway’s local elections in 2024, campaigning to decentralize power, promote peace, and support sentient rights encompassing animal, human, and environmental welfare. Her return of an honorary doctorate awarded by the University of Galway was a powerful statement against institutional complicity, as she protested the university’s collaboration with research linked to the Israeli Defence Forces.​

Margaretta’s influence extended across generations of activists and artists. She inspired feminist performance groups and stayed true to her belief in theatre as a platform for resistance. Her legacy of compassion, courage, and creativity remains an enduring beacon for peace and justice in Galway and beyond. The Galway Review honors her life and work, offering heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved her. Her voice and spirit live on in our pages and hearts.

READ HER POEMS: https://thegalwayreview.com/2012/11/20/three-poems-by-margaretta-darcy/