North West Migrants Forum

Teacher who confronted anti-migrant protester urges nominations for Advancing Race Equality Awards

A Donegal school teacher who went viral after confronting an anti-migrant protester is among those backing this year’s Advancing Race Equality Awards.

Oure awards recognise the outstanding work being done within communities to tackle racial discrimination, promote racial equality and foster positive relationships between diverse groups of people.

The Advancing Race Equality Awards have become a highlight of the diversity calendar as they celebrate the efforts and achievements of individuals, volunteers, schools, colleges and universities and those working in the public and private sectors.

Among the winners at the 2023 awards was Donegal school teacher Sarah Roberts (pictured).

Ms Roberts was presented with a Special Recognition Award after a video of her confronting an anti-migrant campaigner in Gaoth Dobhair took social media by storm.

North West Migrants Forum CEO Lilian Seenoi Barr giving Sarah Roberts a hug on stage at the awards in March.

Presenting her with her trophy, North West Migrants Forum CEO Lilian Seenoi Barr praised her for her bravery and said the world “needs more people like Sarah”.

Speaking following the launch of the Advancing Race Equality Awards for 2024, Ms Roberts said, “The Advancing Race Equality Awards are the most amazing way of recognising individuals and organisations who work day in, day out to create a society that is better for all of us.

“If you know anyone who is worthy of such recognition, please do nominate them.”

Migrants Forum CEO Ms Seenoi Barr added, “Our aim is to recognise individuals and groups who are making a positive impact on diversity, equity and inclusion.

“All too often the outstanding devotion of so many people and organisations towards creating a fairer society and a more just world goes unnoticed.

“The Advancing Race Equality Awards are about putting that right and we look forward to shining the spotlight on our incredible role models and change makers.”

Members of the MSCNI team all smiles after winning the Advancing Racial Justice and Fairness Award. Who will be the 2024 winner? You decide!

The next Advancing Race Equality Awards ceremony will take place on March 6 with nominations being accepted across the following categories:

Anti-Racism School of the Year 

Anti-Racism Teacher of the Year 

Anti-Racism Art Ambassador of the Year (Primary School)

 Anti-Racism Art Ambassador of the Year (Secondary School) 

Young Leader 

Community Champion of the Year 

Advancing Racial Justice and Fairness

 Anti-Racism Media Award 

Anti-Racism Leader of the Year 

Lifetime Achievement

If you know anyone who deserves recognition for their work, go to https://nwmf.org.uk/awards/ or email your entry to areawards@nwmf.org.uk.

If you have any questions, you can contact the North West Migrants Forum on 02871 362184.

Nominations close on November 30.