This statue by John Behan was inspired by an idea from the founders of Equal Ireland, a ‘community based charitable trust that provides affordable quality education and training to people who missed out on earlier education and training opportunities. It was unveiled in November 2001. The statue depicts a human figure breaking free from a wall that represents oppression and inequality. It sits across from the Galway Cathedral. It was partially funded by the European Social Fund
The dedication on the statue is as follows:
The statue equality emerging is dedicated to people everywhere who are struggling for equality and to those suffering because of its absence. The emerging figure represents the force for equality, the wall, those people and systems in opposition. Overall the sculpture celebrates achievement while acknowledging the struggle which still lies ahead.
At the base of the equality emerging statue is a dedication verse:
Above a hole in the ground
No matter what stands
Measures nothing of life unless
It touches our hearts
Inspires our humanity to act
And then to persevere
