THREAD: So among all the usual inaccuracies to be found in a right-wing article about the term “Anglo-Saxon” (which there is no ban on its use – it’s inaccurate, misleading, misuse) the inflammatory articles pegged me as “Irish.” #medievatwitter #ireland #irishtwitter 1/16

In over 3000+ comments, almost none seem to have an idea abt colonization &how Irish were subject to bullshit English rule. I love Ireland, its people, its rich history (like anywhere else has) &I’m proud to be considered an “Irish academic.” See how they view the Irish though: 2

British white nationalists view the Irish as beneath them. The colonialists who subjected the Irish to dehumanization and atrocities were disgusting. A consequence of being colonized is that sometimes you have to fight for freedom. The Irish did and yet: 3/16

Sorry what? Ireland being called a far-right state is just mindboggling. This is how messed up the far-right are when they project: 4/16

This is why education is important. This person didn’t have a very good one (to say the least). The Angles and Saxons did WHAT? In case it’s not clear, this person is super dumb. 5/16

The early English were apparently hippies. 6/16

What some of these British white nationalists think of the Irish, in case it wasn’t clear. Again, remember this is inextricably linked to what they think the term "Anglo-Saxon" means --- it means it's them. 7/16

And even though Ireland has some incredible centers of learning, apparently we have no brains. 8/16

To answer this dickwad’s question, we’ll stop sticking our noses in when there’s an acknowledgement of the atrocities of colonization, and real reparations are paid.

P.S. Scholars *should* be correcting errors/misuse of terms in our language, &that's what we are trying to do. 9

Taking some pressure off of the Americans today, so it's not just an American problem. You’re welcome, American colleagues!! 10/16

Now, this isn’t to start a flame war between scholars, most don’t look down on each other because of where they are from (altho some do). However, the point is that people will look for any excuse to avoid dealing with an issue of racism by searching for ways to deflect. 11/16

This is where it hits home for academics. Those who are using the discussion of whether or not to abandon the term “Anglo-Saxon” in scholarship as a means to discuss everything but racism are sidestepping. You are missing the point and you are doing it purposefully. 12/16

Antiracism is not “I believe it is wrong BUT…”.

Antiracism is “I believe it is wrong. The end.” 13/16

Anyway, I’m so sorry to all Irish academics. I adore your country &you deserve better because your research, scholarship &impact on the world is &has been immense. You have already welcomed me into your academic community in ways I cannot express enough thanks 14/16

and I’ll continue to be proud to be that “Irish academic” that these racists hate. And just so we're clear, I think there are tremendous British academics out there too. Keep working together. 15/16

Here's my other thoughts on the subject of empire by some old Canadian satirists: 16/16

Addendum #MedievalTwitter : I forgot to add this excellent post by @StephenHewer https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2019/1106/1089058-gaels-normans-anglo-saxons-medieval-names/?fbclid=IwAR3VK9yI0vsPrO1yjzmlKdbg1I4LARBBespgSXgyMZGraJ6p1qaPXljE_f4