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Good Relations Week 2026 has launched with a call for organisations, schools, businesses and community groups throughout the north to get involved in this year's celebration, which runs from 12 to 18 October. The theme for this year's event is 'Include'.
Organised by the Community Relations Council, the week has been running for over 20 years and has become one of the region's most recognised celebrations of good relations, peace-building and cultural diversity. More than 130 organisations take part, with hundreds of events taking place throughout the week.
The programme covers workshops, panel discussions, talks, podcasts, film screenings, performances, storytelling and shared experiences. Events will focus on issues including sectarianism, racism, belonging, shared spaces, migration and cultural diversity, and the week also recognises the role young people play in shaping the future of society.
The launch follows recent PSNI statistics which highlighted continuing concerns around sectarianism and hate-related incidents, reinforcing the importance of initiatives that promote understanding and create opportunities for people to connect.
Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, said: "Good Relations Week has become one of the most important opportunities in our calendar to recognise and celebrate the incredible work taking place every day to bring people together, strengthen relationships and promote understanding across the region.
"This year's theme, 'Include', carries a simple but powerful message. It reminds us that creating a welcoming and inclusive society is something we all have a role in through the way we treat others, support one another and make space for different voices and experiences."
The campaign is being supported by broadcaster and DJ Ibe Sesay and disability advocate and campaigner Bernadette Hagans.
Sesay said: "I'm really proud to support Good Relations Week 2026 and this year's message, 'Include.' As a father and husband, I want my family to live in a society where people are respected, welcomed and valued for who they are, regardless of background, identity or culture."
Hagans said: "Going through cancer and becoming an amputee completely changed how I saw myself and the world around me. It really made me aware of how important kindness, understanding and support from other people can be. What stayed with me most throughout that journey was the difference it makes when people feel genuinely included, not treated differently, not judged and not overlooked."
Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council, said: "The theme 'Include' reflects the importance of creating environments where everyone feels welcomed, heard and able to belong. It is about recognising the value of every person, celebrating the diversity that enriches our communities and encouraging a culture of openness, respect and inclusion throughout society."
Good Relations Week 2026 is supported by the Executive Office and contributes to the Together: Building a United Community Strategy. Community groups, voluntary organisations, businesses and local councils wishing to register an event must do so before Thursday, 1 October 2026. Further information is available at goodrelationsweek.com.
