Write a commentAt a special event on Thursday community groups, ethnic minorities and statutory bodies heard ambitious plans to challenge racism in local communities.
The Southern Cluster Partnership - representing Newry and Mourne District Council, Craigavon Borough Council, Banbridge District Council and Armagh City and District Council as well as Louth and Monaghan Council regions – hosted the event in Altnaveigh House, Newry.
‘Challenge of Change’ is one of seven priorities outlined in the Beyond Tolerance Strategy, under Measure 1:1 Building Positive Relations at a local level which is part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund through the EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE III) managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.
Over 100 local representatives attended the event and were welcomed by the Mayor of Newry and Mourne Cllr John Feehan and Joint Chair of the Southern Cluster Partnership Dr James McCammick. Guest speakers included Howard Keery, Director of the Joint Technical Secretariat at the Special EU Programmes Body and Paul Yam, Director of the Chinese Community Association WAH HEP
Speaking at the event Howard Keery, Director of Joint Technical Secretariat with the SEUPB said:
“Due to the conflict many sections of our society have not yet developed the capacity to deal with diversity. The historical way of dealing with these issues has been through intolerance and violence. The ‘Challenge for Change’ initiative, with support from the EU funded PEACE III Programme, will enhance current service provision in this area and has been designed to explore good practice and help overcome intolerance”.
During the evening Challenge of Change officers unveiled ambitious strategies to help communities embrace diversity and tackle discrimination.
Challenge of Change Coordinator Justyna McCabe said: “Our aim is to facilitate greater involvement of people from black and minority ethnic communities in civic, community and political life, and increase community cohesion. The high attendance here tonight is wonderful way to start this communication network and we’re delighted to see such support of the Southern Cluster Challenge of Change strategy.”
Plans included the introduction of a range of support services and initiatives which will be delivered throughout 2010: These included -
Training for ethnic minority groups and indigenous communities;
Addressing racism through ‘Challenge of Change champions, anti racism campaigns, such as Anti Racist Workplace Week 2010 and mediation activities
Establishing Cross-cluster and cross-border Networking Groups;
Community and sports based integration projects;
Provision of resources for advice, support and signposting to minority residents such as events and outreach clinics.
Full Action Plan report attached.
Southern Cluster Partnership joint chairpersons Cllr Charlie Casey and Dr James McCammick said: “This event has created an important networking opportunity for community, statutory, voluntary groups and ethnic minority groups and individuals who will all be involved in delivering our aims. Our officers can build on the good will generated here tonight to deliver their action plan throughout 2010.”
A number of Challenge of Change Officers have recently been appointed each with specific geographical responsibilities: -
Justyna McCabe, Newry & Mourne: 028 3031 3189
Kate Bingham, Banbridge: 028 3031 3167
Patrick Kelly, Craigavon: 028 3031 3172
Taucher McDonald, Armagh/Monaghan: 028 3031 3166
