Researching the Vigil for Hillsborough and Social Justice

[Chris Day]

Hi,

I was wondering if you would be able to help.

I am a researcher from Coventry University who is investigating the role of emotion in social justice campaigns. I am looking to speak to people who were at the Vigil for Hillsborough in 2016.

While I appreciate that this is a LFC fansite rather than a politically motivated group, I thought that club fans and members of the community may have been at the Vigil and may be interested in talking to me about their experience? I am aware that this is an active forum, however, I felt that it was inappropriate to go just post about my research without seeking permission from you first. With this in mind, I was wondering if you would be happy to make people aware of my project through your forum?

If you would like to know any more I would be happy to talk to you about it in person or send more detailed information.

Any help or advice you can offer would be hugely appreciated.

Kind Regards

Chris Day

PhD Candidate

Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations

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[Chris Day]

Further to the above post, a little more information is below. If you would like to be involved please send me a message!

Project Title: A case study of the Hillsborough vigil and its impact

PROJECT SUMMARY

What is the purpose of this research project?
The overall aims of this project are to examine the emotions of individuals and groups, or crowds, in relation to significant events linked with the pursuit of social justice. The focus is on how people make sense of their feelings, how they express them and the influence of context on their experience.

The Hillsborough Vigil in Liverpool, on April 27th 2016, was such a landmark event because of the ongoing battle for truth and justice in the face of decades of misinformation and controversy. This case study is concerned with exploring the emotional experiences of those who attended the Vigil and, importantly, the impact of the long-awaited verdict exonerating fans.

What will happen if people decide to take part?
You would be asked about your experiences, thoughts, impressions and observations at the Hillsborough vigil. The informal interview, lasting 30-45 mins approximately, will take place in a safe environment at a time that is convenient to you. Ideally, the interview would be audio recorded, however, your responses would be strictly confidential and you would not be identifiable in any of the project outputs.
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What are the benefits of taking part?
Emotions and personal experience, 'human' aspects of social justice campaigns, are often overlooked in favour of 'facts', figures and soundbites. By talking to people about their personal experiences and looking at how emotions are expressed a better understanding of emotion in groups and collectives can be gained. This research aims to provide a voice to the campaigners and supporters involved in the Hillsborough Vigil which can help other groups pursuing social justice.