TO mark World Diversity Day the North West Migrants Forum and Sole Purpose Productions are inviting members of the public to join them for a unique evening of culture, music and connection.
Performers from a number of countries are tuning up to take part in ‘Integration Craic – Connecting Cultures, Creating Community’ in Cultúrlann on Derry’s Great James Street on May 21.
The evening of entertainment aims 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 is 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 this year’s event is 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.
This is the third year the North West Migrants Forum has organised such a multi-cultural music event. Last year’s gig, run in collaboration with multi-award winning theatre group Sole Purpose Productions, drew over 150 people of all ages and backgrounds to Cultúrlann.
Sole Purpose has signed on as collaborative partners for a second year and its Artistic Director, Patricia Byrne, said they were delighted to be involved once again.
“We are very excited to be collaborating with the Migrants Forum on this wonderful event for a second year.
“Our ‘Songs Without Borders’ group is really looking forward to bringing music from different countries and helping bring Cultúrlann to life.
“Last year was a huge success and we are excited to be doing it all again.” Integration Craic – Connecting Cultures, Creating Community is a family friendly social gathering. It will take place in Cultúrlann on Great James Street, Derry, on May 21 from 6pm to 9pm. Entry is free and everyone is welcome to join in.
