A seminar hosted by the Donegal Intercultural Platform and the Donegal Local Development Company highlighted equality and human rights issues in the county last week.
The seminar successfully brought together public bodies, community organisations, and advocates to engage in critical discussions on the implementation of the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty. The seminar marked a key moment in raising awareness and promoting action on equality and human rights issues across Donegal.
The event featured panel discussions and breakout workshops focused on the challenges and opportunities of integrating equality and human rights into public services. Participants included representatives from a range of sectors, all committed to ensuring that Donegal becomes a more inclusive and equitable place for everyone.
One of the highlights of the day was a thought-provoking address by keynote speaker Niall Crowley, a long-standing advocate for equality and human rights. His speech emphasised the urgent need to embed these principles within the public sector, particularly in a climate where asylum seekers, refugees, and international protection applicants are increasingly targeted by anti-migrant sentiment, and where racism remains prevalent and a lived reality.
“The human rights landscape has changed significantly over the past three years, with equality and fundamental rights coming under attack,” remarked Olitha Mpofu, one of the attendees. “This makes it even more crucial for public bodies to adopt the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty to counter these harmful narratives.”
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND FUTURE VISION
The Think Equality Donegal initiative has already made significant progress in public sector engagement on equality. To date, the programme has trained over 950 individuals across eight public bodies and Family resource centres in Donegal, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to integrate equality and human rights into their everyday roles. Furthermore, 13 members of the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) community, including Travellers and Roma, have completed Level 5 accredited courses in interculturalism, enhancing their ability to contribute to community life.
During the seminar, Balume Dube, Programme Lead for Think Equality Donegal, reflected on both the successes and the challenges that lie ahead. “We have made significant strides in embedding the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty, but the road ahead will require even more collaboration, innovation, and commitment. This seminar has provided a vital platform for these important conversations to continue.”
COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT
Participants shared a united commitment to addressing the economic inequalities, discrimination, and exclusion faced by Black and Minority Ethnic communities, including Travellers and Roma. The seminar reinforced that collaboration is crucial to ensuring that the principles of equality and human rights are fully realised across public services in Donegal.
With the ongoing support of dedicated leaders, community members, and advocates, Donegal is well on its way to becoming a beacon for equality and human rights.
