The Inishowen Standing Together Against Racism (I-STAR) network was launched last Wednesday at the Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP) offices in Buncrana.
The event outlined a year-long plan to celebrate established community connections while working towards safer, more inclusive spaces for all residents.
Local Gardaí, Donegal ETB, Foróige, Tusla, community groups such as Sanctuary Runners and The Exchange, plus International Protection Applicants and refugees attended the event. Many of these groups were involved in developing the initiative through their work on the Inishowen Family Action Network [IFAN] Integrating Communities subgroup
Denise McCool, IDP Team Lead, welcomed the strong turnout, saying that it demonstrated the broad commitment to making Inishowen welcoming for everyone.
“The energy in the room was palpable,” said Denise.
“Representatives from ethnic minority communities and local Irish groups and statutory organisations alike expressed eagerness to participate.
“We heard about thriving positive connections that are happening through groups like The Sanctury Runners and the Exchange, as well as hearing directly from migrants about valued supports but also persistent challenges and as described silent racism,” added Denise.
Elizabeth Fawibe, a Buncrana resident for two years who previously collaborated with IDP on a Welcome Guide for newcomers, said she was thrilled to see welcoming efforts being built on.
“This initiative tackles real challenges while creating more opportunities for newcomers to connect with locals,” added Elizabeth.
Attendees heard directly from migrants about experiences of overt and subtle racism.
Alison McLaughlin of IDP’s Connecting Communities Team said the I-STAR initiative aims to establish trusted local support pathways for people who are experiencing racism in Inishowen.
“We hope this will ensure that anyone facing racism or hate has a clear way to report it and to access the support they need,” said Alison.
Through the programme, IDP aim to hold cross cultural community events, organise training and rights and reporting procedures and hold regular meetings with the various stakeholders to present a united front.
IDP Connecting Communities Officer Patricia Higgins explained that main plan will be to implement a ‘Buddy System’ in Inishowen.
“We’ll partner across Inishowen to enhance community capacity through targeted training and inclusive gatherings,” explained Patricia.
“But one key initiative will be our Buddy System, where local families and individuals can volunteer to connect with newly arriving migrants to help them settle into their new life here.”
IDP are now calling on people to get involved in the I-Star project by joining the Steering Group, attend training, host /attend events, volunteer as a Buddy, or to assist people in their application process.
For more information or to get involved contact Patricia or Alison at [email protected] and [email protected] or call IDP 074-9362218.
Additional Information:
The ISTAR project is supported by the Ireland Against Racism Fund and the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration
