Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination Network
A number of organisations in Galway, including Galway Traveller Movement, Galway City Partnership, Galway City Community Network, Galway Council of Trade Unions and groups such as Galway Anti-Racism Network, Amach! LGBTI+ Galway, University of Sanctuary and Community Knowledge Initiative UOG have come together to promote inclusion in our wider communities and oppose racism and discrimination in all its forms.
Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination Network believes that Galway City’s diversity is its strength, and they would like to build on this, and make sure that everyone feels included and welcomed in our community.
This group came about as a response to misinformation that is currently spread against minority groups. These messages are targeting migrant/refugee communities who have recently arrived causing fear and distress. There are also messages affecting the attainment of rights and inclusion for minority communities such as the LGBTI+ community. They also add to the divisive messages already existing in our wider community that contribute to the long-standing experience of racism by the Traveller community.
The reality is that we are stronger together if we want to create a positive change and address the systemic causes of social exclusion.
Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination Network is asking organisations around Galway City and County to sign an anti-racism and discrimination pledge. The pledge asks organisations to:
‘Stand against all forms of racism and discrimination, including sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. We want to create a society where all people feel respected, valued and protected. We believe in equality for all and don’t tolerate racism, the spread of hate in our communities, or any form of discrimination’.
If you wish to sign this pledge, please contact Brian on development@gccn.ie for further details.
The first event organised by Galway Communities Against Racism and Discrimination Network was a Solidarity Rally held in Eyre Square on March 25th, 2023.
The event was very well attended and was a powerful statement of solidarity!
Please see some snapshots from the day below, taken by Avi Ratnayake.
