Remembering Tom Hyland A Fearless Advocate for Justice
Tom Hyland, who passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness, was a tireless campaigner for justice and humanity. Known for his bold efforts, empathy, and humor, Hyland devoted his life to advocating for the people of East Timor and Palestine. His passing marks the loss of a unique figure whose work inspired many around the world.
Early Life and Inspiration
Tom Hyland was born on October 12, 1952, in Dublin, Ireland. He grew up in Ballyfermot, the second eldest of five children in a working-class family. His father, Jem, was a laborer, and his mother, Lily, worked as a cleaner at St. James’s Hospital. Despite growing up with limited resources, Hyland developed a strong sense of justice and empathy at a young age.
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Education and Early Work: He attended local schools and worked briefly as an apprentice mechanic before joining CIÉ, where he became a bus driver.
- Personal Loss: In 1981, he faced a devastating loss when both his parents passed away within five days of each other.
This loss marked a turning point in Hyland’s life. Over the next few years, he became deeply aware of global injustices, traveling to Kenya with Action Aid and participating in famine walks organized by NGOs like Afri.
The East Timor Campaign
Tom Hyland’s activism took off after he watched a UTV documentary about the atrocities in East Timor. The program, Cold Blood: The Massacre of East Timor, showed graphic footage of a 1991 massacre at Santa Cruz cemetery, where Indonesian troops killed over 250 mourners. This event deeply moved Hyland and set him on a mission to support East Timor’s struggle for independence.
- Starting the Movement: Hyland co-founded the East Timor Ireland Solidarity Campaign (ETISC) from a small office in Dame Street, Dublin. He rallied neighbors, trade unions, and NGOs to support the cause.
- Hosting Activists: Hyland welcomed East Timorese activists to Ireland, including Dino Gandara, who recalls Hyland arranging accommodations and connecting them with local communities.
Through his work, Hyland helped secure international support for East Timor’s independence, gaining the backing of Irish politicians like Senator David Norris.
Advocacy for Palestine
Hyland’s activism didn’t stop with East Timor. He also co-founded the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC), bringing the same energy and determination to the Palestinian cause. His efforts to highlight human rights violations in Palestine earned him admiration from activists worldwide.
- Tactics and Strategy: Hyland’s non-confrontational yet effective approach included public awareness campaigns and diplomatic pressure.
- Legacy in Advocacy: His work with IPSC strengthened Ireland’s reputation as a champion for human rights.
A Life of Sacrifice and Empathy
Tom Hyland dedicated his life to helping others, often at great personal sacrifice. His selflessness and commitment to justice defined his journey as an activist and humanitarian.
- East Timor Contributions: After East Timor achieved independence, Hyland relocated there to support its development. He worked with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and taught English to staff members. Additionally, Hyland helped young Timorese students by covering education expenses, ensuring they had better opportunities for the future.
- Support for Healthcare: Hyland played a key role in raising funds for Dr. Dan Murphy’s clinic in East Timor. This clinic provided essential medical services to local communities, reflecting Hyland’s ongoing commitment to improving lives.
- Animal Welfare: Beyond his work with people, Hyland had a soft spot for animals. He lovingly cared for his dogs while in Dublin and his cats when living in Dili.
Hyland’s efforts often required navigating difficult situations, including the challenges of limited resources and even physical risks during his activism. His resilience was evident in how he addressed global injustices, sometimes working tirelessly even during difficult times like ESB outages in East Timor. His ability to adapt and continue his mission showcased his dedication to making the world a better place.
Tributes and Legacy
Hyland’s work earned him praise from prominent figures like journalist John Pilger and East Timor’s prime minister Xanana Gusmao, who described him as “imaginative, fearless, and powerful.” Irish President Michael D. Higgins called him an exceptional person who acted on global injustices.
- Recognition: In 2003, Hyland received an honorary doctorate from the University of Limerick.
- Global Influence: UN Secretary-General António Guterres and others lauded Hyland for his passionate voice that resonated across continents.
Family and Final Farewell
Tom Hyland is survived by his siblings Jimmy, Ellen, and Marcella, along with his extended family. A memorial service will be held in Dublin later this month.
The people of East Timor and Palestine remember Hyland not just as an activist but as a compassionate human being who worked tirelessly for justice. His legacy continues to inspire future generations to stand up for humanity.
