THE Sollus Centre in Bready played host to a special event this week where Derry City and Strabane District Council celebrated projects that have helped unite the community with the aid of Good Relations funding.
A total of 43 groups across the city and district have received their share of over £160k in grants over the financial year to help tackle racism and sectarianism and celebrate diversity.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Hilary McClintock, addressed the event where she praised all those involved in promoting harmony in their communities.
“Council takes very seriously its commitment to the promotion of equality and good relations,” she said.
“We also highly value the work of the community and voluntary sectors locally who are very professional and innovative and form a bedrock in many of our local communities.
“I would like to thank all of those community groups who took the time to apply for the funding, the quality of applications was very high this year and we are delighted to have been able to sustain the amount of funding we had available this year.
“A lot of work goes on in this city, much of it behind the scenes, to make it a place where all communities and identities are welcomed and respected.
“Good Relations work is very much about everyone being able to express their culture and identity in a positive way and respect those with whom they may differ.
“The funding has gone to a very wide range of groups from diverse identities, geographical areas and interests.”
Thursday’s event was part of a week long programme organised by Council to celebrate Community Relations and Cultural Awareness week.
The aim of the Northern Ireland wide initiative is to engage with the public and urge them to consider and embrace the growing cultural diversity that exists in our local community.
More information about Community Relations and Cultural Awareness Week is available atwww.derrystrabane.com.
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