OVER 100 people gathered in Cultúrlann on May 21 2026 for ‘Integration Craic’, a family-orientated evening of fun, food and friendship.
Integration Craic was organised to coincide with World Diversity Day and saw the North West Migrants Forum and Sole Purpose Productions invite members of the public to join them for a unique celebration of culture, music and connection.
Performers from a number of countries tuned up to take part in ‘Integration Craic – Connecting Cultures, Creating Community’ which aimed to bring people together and open them up to a deeper understanding of the value of cultural diversity.
Now in its 23 rd year, World Day for Cultural Diversity encourages individuals, institutions and organisations to take action in support of diversity, inclusion and intercultural dialogue. Responsible for organising Integration Craic was the North West Migrants Forum’s Welfare and Integration Officer Gaëlle Gormley.
She said the aim was to build relations between Northern Ireland’s two traditional communities and those from overseas who have made the north west their home in recent times.
Ms Gormley added that the 2026 event was of added importance, given the unprecedented levels of hostility being directed at migrants across Northern Ireland and beyond.
“At a time when the atmosphere in the UK, Ireland and other European countries is becoming increasingly hostile towards migrants, especially refugees, it is more important than ever to bring local people and minoritised communities together for a friendly, welcoming and fun event.
“Refugees are often demonised and many false narratives are spread on social media. We aim to debunk these stereotypes by showing that we can live together in peace, create bonds, connect cultures and build a unified community,” Gaëlle Gormley said.