• Discussion or Talk
• 19 Sep 7:30 pm

30 years of Peace?

30 Years of Peace?

Event Description:

It is important to acknowledge milestones in the story of peace. Join us as we reflect on what has been achieved and what lessons we need to keep learning.

On 31st August 1994 the IRA announced their ceasefire. This was closely followed by the Combined Loyalist Military Command announcing their ceasefire on 13th October 1994.

Whilst these ceasefires did not completely end all tensions, they marked a crucial step in Northern Ireland’s progress towards reconciliation and it is important to reflect on our journey.

Now, we are reaching a moment 30 years on from these ceasefires. Good Relations week occurs between these two dates and the theme for 2024 is ‘OpportUNITY’. This evening will provide an opportunity to consider the initial factors that contributed towards these ceasefires as well as some of the evolving community dynamics that are still contributing towards ongoing violence.

A variety of schools have participated in lessons around these themes and will bring their learning which will be displayed in the ‘causeway of peace’.

Programme:

7:30pm: Reception

With an opportuntiy to enjoy the display of the schools’ work

8:00pm Panel Discussion

Moderator for the evening: Jude Mitchell (nee Hill)

Jude Mitchell is a journalist with over 15 years broadcast experience who currently works in the third sector. She is a podcast coach and hosts her own podcast, Peace by Piece, which explores post conflict conversations. Jude is passionate about amplifying voices that often don’t get heard and encouraging authentic community conversations.

Topics will include: factors that contributed to the ceasefires, changing dynamics in paramilitary activity, developing a vision of a peaceful society and loosening the grip of paramilitarism and criminality

Panel Members:

• Stephen Hughes (St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre)
• Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Neil
• Councillor Seanna Walsh (Sinn Fein)
• William Hutchinson (PUP)

Summing up:

Debbie Watters (Northern Ireland Alternatives)

Join us to explore together the journey towards the ceasefires, celebrate the progress made, and reflect on the continuing challenges. Engage with insightful speakers, creative responses from young people in some of our schools, and participate in thought-provoking discussions. Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about peacebuilding and reconciliation.

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