The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Naomi Long, launched the Belfast Divercity Project on the 26th March in Farset International.  Pictured with the Mayor are trainers Diane Greer (WEA), Stevie Johnston (Interaction Institute for Social Change) and Diarmuid Moore, Assistant Director  (WEA)

Over the next 9 months over 100 workers in the community and voluntary sector in Belfast will take part in a training and support programme looking at how organisations work across community, religious and ethnic boundaries.  The programme includes an intensive training course on equality and diversity and a package of support to organisations so that they are able to take practical steps to make sure their organisation is open to people from different communities and backgrounds.  One highlight of the programme will be the diversity challenge visits where participants are asked to take part in an event from an unfamiliar culture for example attending a sporting event associated with another community or taking part in a religious ceremony from a different religious tradition.

At the launch the Lord Mayor said:

"Our city is working hard to overcome the divisions of the past and forging ahead to a positive future offering equality of opportunity to all who live and work here. This programme is a great example of the theme of my term in office - Belfast without barriers. By promoting the creation of shared space, all of Belfast’s citizens can come together and enjoy a better quality of life.”

Although the leaders course is now under way there are further opportunities to take part in a free 6 day course focusing on equality, diversity and Conflict Management©.  The next run of the course will take place starting 25 May in Belfast. &;nbsp;

Full information is contained in the flyer and if you would you like to take part download and send back the application form.