LISTEN: NI Community Relations Council marks 30 years of peace building

By Q Radio News

Northern Ireland's Community Relations Council is marking its 30th year of peace building and cultural diversity. 

As 'Good Relations Week' continues, the council's organised over 170 virtual events exploring topics such as tackling sectarianism and racism, dealing with the past and language.

Online discussion panels will be held and podcasts and new short films will be available. 

Nisha Tandon from the council says the theme this year is 'celebrating our journey, embracing our future'. 

The colourful events acknowledge the past three decades which have seen dramatic changes both politically and demographically here.

They also cover a wide geography and explore secret histories and newfound archives in Co Fermanagh, real life historical drama from the women of Derry/Londonderry, and Japanese manga art in Carrickfergus.

The virtual programme includes the story of a refugee who has connected with his new home in Belfast thanks to a love of Heavy Metal music and showcases exhibitions of art and photography, storytelling through personal testimony, online discussion panels, podcasts, archive video and new short films.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer such a diverse, interesting and entertaining programme, given the challenges of lockdown and the need to take most of the planned events online,'' Ms Tandon added.

''We are bowled over by the tenacity and passion of the organisations who have risen to this challenge.  

''As a result, we have probably the biggest ever online showcase of Northern Ireland’s cultural and community good relations work – with the potential for it to be seen by a much broader audience than ever before.” 

The online events and digital content also explores topics such as tackling sectarianism and racism, cultural diversity, dealing with the past, faith, sport, young people and language.

It is still available at www.goodrelationsweek.com/events