Derry groups seizing 'OpportUNiTY’ to celebrate Good Relations Week 2024

PICTURED ABOVE: Amanda Biega, Derry City & Strabane District Council Representative , Paul Sweeney, The Playhouse, Dr. Máire Braniff, Community Relations Council, Christy Curran The Playhouse, Lilian Seenor-Barr, Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council Peter Day, Community Relations Council, Claire Johnston The Executive Office.

Local groups and organisations in Derry City & Strabane District Council embrace 'OpportUNiTY’ to host a wide range of events as part of Good Relations Week 2024.

Derry City & Strabane District Council will join local groups and organisations in celebrating Good Relations Week 2024 by embracing the 'OpportUNiTY’ to host a wide range of cross-community and cultural events as part of the annual celebration.

Good Relations Week 2024, coordinated by the Community Relations Council, will run from Monday 16th to Sunday 22nd September 2024 with an anticipated programme of over 200 events across the region.

Celebrating the theme of ‘OpportUNiTY,’ the events will highlight the action, enthusiasm, and commitment of local groups and organisations in the Derry City & Strabane District Council area in their efforts to foster positive community relations and promote cultural diversity.

The Good Relations Week programme of events will include an exciting mix of workshops, lectures, theatre productions, panel discussions, feature talks, podcasts, exhibitions, musical performances, and many other exciting events.

The events are designed to demonstrate the strength of communities in working together to break down barriers and creating opportunities to deliver a more inclusive society. The week shines a light on the positive work going on every day to address societal challenges such as sectarianism, racism, gender inequality, health and well-being, poverty, and education.

Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, the Mayor of Derry City & Strabane said: " I am delighted that our Council area will again be taking part in this annual celebration of diversity and inclusivity.

“Good Relations Week is an ideal opportunity to highlight and get involved in some of the crucial work that takes place across the Council area to help build positive relations between the diverse range of cultures and communities who call Derry and Strabane home.

“The programme features a number of events that will showcase the important Good Relations work that takes place on the ground locally and I would encourage the public to access the schedule and get involved.”

Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, remarked: “We want to commend the commitment of local groups and organisations in Derry City & Strabane District Council to Good Relations Week. The enthusiasm and involvement of local groups and organisations are pivotal in creating an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued. Good Relations Week 2024 presents a unique opportunity for the everyone to come together, enhancing social cohesion and inclusivity.”

Dr. Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive Officer of the Community Relations Council, added: “This year’s theme, ‘OpportUNiTY,’ embodies the essence of what Good Relations Week strives to achieve. It highlights how every event and initiative throughout the week, provides a unique chance for us to come together, embrace diversity, and address the challenges we face as a region.

“The diverse array of events planned across Derry City & Strabane District Council demonstrates the power of seizing opportunities to foster understanding and collaboration. By participating in these events, we can take full advantage of Good Relations Week to make meaningful connections and drive positive change to build a stronger, more cohesive society.”

Good Relations Week is supported by The Executive Office and contributes to delivering the Together: Building a United Community Strategy.

For more information on Good Relations Week 2024 and to register an event visit: www.goodrelationsweek.com