Last month the Community Relations Council co-ordinated Good Relations Week 2018, in conjunction with The Executive Office, the Department for Communities, the Department of Justice and the Education Authority. It was a week-long showcase of peace-building work, community relations initiatives and informed debate.
Over 180 events took place under the week’s theme of “Then, Now…Next?” The theme was chosen to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement. It reflected on how far we have come and established forums, free from prejudice and discrimination, to discuss and debate our thoughts for the future.
Events reflected on our difficult past and how these experiences are important for shaping our collective shared future. Many events showcased the day-to-day work of countless grassroots community groups and organisations working together to build united communities and meaningful relationships.
Good Relations Week 2018 shone a spotlight on local people in every community who act as facilitators and peacebuilders in good relations work. It is their preparedness and perseverance to promote good community relationships that is the foundation for embracing a truly shared future.
Their esteem and trust within local communities is the catalyst to establish new and innovative approaches to good relations work, the likes of which was so excellently displayed during the week. They are a voice of encouragement to motivate more and more people every day to see the power of engaging with their neighbours to build safe and friendly communities across the region.
Despite the many concerns that people have about the future, even more events took place this year than in 2017 – a promising outlook and an indication that local people are taking on more responsibility for shaping the future of their community. The future will be created together and the week shows that more of us are realising that we are all responsible for how that future will look.
Good Relations Week is a reminder that community relations work is not reactionary, it is proactive by the day and by the hour. Trust and confidence in each other is built by actions, not words alone. We need more of this work and it is as important now as it has ever been.
Jacqueline Irwin
Chief Executive
Community Relations Council