The aim of this project was to foster peace and friendship between communities, north and south of the border and to understand conflict both at home and around the world. The team selected this social issue because of the proximity to Northern Ireland and experience of being close to conflict. They also wanted to learn more about the ongoing conflict in Syria.
The group realised that unless young people stand up and do something about conflict, then the next generations will grow up believing that there is no alternative. They based their project on their belief that peace begins at home by taking small steps and young people are the key to changing negative attitudes and promoting a peaceful future.
The Action
To learn more about conflict and peace the group carried out a lot of varied research. They interviewed senior citizens in the community who remembered the height of the troubles, took a tour around Belfast, studied books, plays and films which addressed the topic, took part in workshops and sought advice and resources from UNICEF.
To foster links with groups from the North and South, the group secured funding from their Education Board and County Council to fund a residential. They invited students from youth groups in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin and Brookborough, Co. Fermanagh to join them for workshops, outdoor challenges and team building exercises where they could get to know each other and discuss conflict, peace and identity. This has led to continued friendships in all three cross-border communities and further understanding of the reality of conflict.
The Impact
To unite members of their community in peace, the team organised a Memorial Service to commemorate victims of conflict worldwide in a local Presbyterian church and invited people of all creeds to join with them. They have also made a Peace Garden and plaque in their community park to promote the idea that peace begins at home. The garden represents rebirth, growth and connection with the earth proving a perfect way to continue spreading their message.
The team have organised fundraisers such as their “Wellies, Wigs and Onesies” day to fund their ongoing project. They held a “Pay It Forward” week in their school to promote acts of kindness and to communicate the importance of working for peace every day. The group were also invited by UNICEF to take part in a Skype call with refugees from Syria who are now in a Jordan refugee camp. They will continue to foster relationships with young people from all types of backgrounds and advocate for peace.
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