A week to #embRACE diversity in Mid and East Antrim

​A week-long celebration of events, raising awareness of diverse cultures, has taken place across Mid and East Antrim.

The event called ‘#embRACE’, which is now in its third year, makes up part of council’s Good Relations Programme.

Many people attended the programme of events between 8 and 15 February, which included a Race to #embRACE with local parkruns, cultural crafts and story-telling for children, small world café networking and performances of song and dance, all aimed at celebrating the rich and diverse culture of Mid and East Antrim.

Mayor Cllr Maureen Morrow said: “This has been a wonderful week for Mid and East Antrim and it is great to see so many people taking part in the various events and celebrating and embracing the rich and diverse cultures of our Borough.

“This programme, delivered by our Good Relations Programme continues to develop mutual understanding, respect for cultural traditions, the principle of interdependence and positive cross-community and positive race relations throughout the borough.

“I would take this opportunity to thank Artsketa, The Inter Ethnic Forum (Mid and East Antrim), NI Libraries, Uplift Performing Arts and the local parkruns, as well as all the performers and providers who worked in partnership with Council’s Good Relations staff in the delivery of the programme of events. We give special thanks to the Tower Centre, Ballymena, for providing a venue due to adverse weather conditions”.

“Programmes like this are important and significant to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council as we continue to work together to create a “Better Future for All”.

“Council wants everyone who lives, works or visits Mid and East Antrim to feel welcome, safe and respected. This is something that is clearly set out in “Putting People First” – our first Community Plan”, the Mayor concluded.

This programme has been supported by The Executive Office through Mid and East Antrim Borough Council's Good Relations Programme.