Month: February 2024

An extraordinary and emotional day as our Ukraine community held a vigil to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of the Ukrainian war. The vigil attracted the attention of the media who helped spread the message that this war still rages, and more help is required if Ukraine is to succeed. A defiant message was delivered by participants of the vigil (mainly mothers, wives and sisters); they spoke of their thanks to the UK and Ireland for giving them a safe space and shelter, but they still yearned for their homeland.

They spoke in one united voice that they were unified behind the courageous and brave army of Ukraine that keep fighting against the Russian aggression. Many of their husbands, sons, and family members were part of the armed forces meaning these ladies and children suffer every day this war continues. Not knowing if loved ones are safe while trying to negotiate life in a strange country is a challenge every day.

On Valentines Day, we had a wonderful time at our One Love for Humanity event, where we stood with and celebrated our refugee families in the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area. We enjoyed a day of fun activities, delicious food, live music, and inspiring stories. We met some of the amazing people who have fled war, oppression and persecution; and learned more about their cultures, backgrounds and dreams.

We show our refugee friends that they are not alone. We chose love and embrace our diversity as a strength. We are one community, one world, one love. Time to end the cycle of negativity.

We also used the occasion to call on the government to acknowledge our changing society in Northern Ireland and bring refugee/asylum seekers, and new communities’ issues into mainstream discussion.