A new calendar celebrating the city’s rich cultural diversity and featuring a range of compelling images captured by local amateur photographers, was launched by the Mayor of Derry-Londonderry, Councillor Brenda Stevenson, in the Guildhall this week.
The ‘Diverse City – Spice of Life’ calendar recognises and celebrates the many nationalities that have chosen to make the city their home, and sends a clear message that equality is a strong priority in community areas.
Speaking after the launch, Councillor Stevenson said the calendar captures that community spirit and positive attitude to diversity.
She told Derry Daily, “I am delighted to see the launch of the Spice of Life Calendar as it carries such as positive message ahead of Christmas.
“And at a time when so much so being spent on gifts and socialising, the fact that the calendar is free to everyone is particularly welcome.
“Derry is a city with a rich tapestry of cultures which continues to grow year on year, and it is so important to recognise and celebrate each community and the important role it plays in shaping our city and the wider region.
“I would like to thank all those involved in producing the calendar, including the team of local photographers whose images have contributed to such a beautiful product which can be shared and enjoyed by all.
Community Relations Officer with Derry City Council Carol Stewart, explained the reasons behind producing the calendar.
She told Derry Daily, “Derry-Londonderry, as we know, is a place with a rich Irish and a rich British cultural identity, but we are also a city with an estimated 55 other nationalities living locally, with 75 languages represented within our wider community.
“The Diverse City Calendar aims to acknowledge just that – the fact that we are a community made up of a diverse ethnic mix, where equality is a key priority regardless of age, ability or disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or political opinion.
“This calendar doesn’t necessarily seek to just show beautiful images of key architecture and large events in the city – it is about trying to capture a community spirit and a sense of a shared place to live.
All the images included in the ‘Spice of Life’ calendar have been provided by local photographers, most of which have been selected through the Spice of Life photographic competition which launched in May.
The calendar is not for profit and 6,000 copies will be distributed widely throughout the Derry City Council area.
Over the next week copies will be available from the Shared Future Centre and Derry City Council offices on the Strand Road.
Copies will also be posted out to all community groups and will be left at council premises and community centres.
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