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The Newry Mela has been recognised for their contribution to community relations and cultural diversity at the Good Relations Awards 2026.
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The awards, organised by the Community Relations Council (CRC), have been running since 2006 recognising those whose work promotes peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue and positive community relations across the north.
The Connecting Communities Award was presented to Newry Mela 2025, organised by the Newry Indian Arts Club in September last. The festival brought more than 540 participants together at Newry Leisure Centre, representing over 25 cultural communities, creating opportunities for residents to celebrate diversity through music, dance, food and cultural performance. A total of seven awards were presented at the event.
This year's theme was The Power of Everyday Peace, and the standard of nominations was described as exceptional. Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive of the CRC, said: "Much of the work that strengthens our communities happens quietly and often goes unseen. Yet it is this everyday leadership, compassion and commitment that builds trust, promotes fairness and brings people together across difference."
Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the CRC, said: "The work celebrated through these awards often happens away from the spotlight, yet its impact is profound. By recognising these achievements, we not only celebrate the winners themselves, we also acknowledge the wider community of people whose efforts continue to strengthen peace, understanding and cooperation across our society."
With Newry Mela 2025 among this year's honoured recipients, the awards serve as a reminder of the cultural contribution our city continues to make across the north.
