Downpatrick events celebrate culture, connection, and community
Life Change Changes Lives (LCCL) is bringing communities together this summer through two inspiring events which aim to promote racial harmony, inclusion, and shared learning in Downpatrick.
The programme kicked off with a day trip to Exploris Aquarium for 32 participants from local NIHE and migrant backgrounds, offering a fun, relaxed environment to build friendships through shared experience.
The second event is a Pop-Up Art Open Day on Friday, July 27 at LCCL, where attendees will enjoy a vibrant display of multicultural creativity, including handmade artwork, a community-stitched quilt, traditional storytelling, and a tasting of culturally diverse Halal dishes prepared using recipes shared by participants.
The events are free and open to all ages, with bilingual support and inclusive planning ensuring full accessibility.
Claire Crainey, Area Manager for the Housing Executive said: “This is a fantastic example of what community integration can look like when local creativity, culture and compassion come together,
“We’re proud to support projects like this that build understanding, reduce isolation, and strengthen neighbourhood connections.”
Ailish Teague, Operations Manager for LCCL added,
“We warmly welcome the Housing Executive’s continued commitment to promoting good relations and inclusion across our communities.
"At Life Change Changes Lives, our recent Race Relations Open Day – supported by NIHE - offered a vibrant and meaningful opportunity for people from Afghan, Syrian, Somali, Sudanese, Ukrainian, Turkish, Irish, and British backgrounds to come together, share food, creativity and stories in a safe and welcoming space.
“Events like this build trust, break down barriers, and show the strength of diversity in Downpatrick and beyond. We are proud to partner with NIHE in creating positive connections that foster understanding and healing for all.”
LCCL’s initiative is part of the Race Relations Programme, aimed at reducing segregation and fostering lasting relationships between long-term NIHE tenants and new communities in the area.