Charities Host Conference on Combating Xenophobia, Racism, and Islamophobia in Northern Ireland

3 Feb 2025

The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, Africa House, Northern Ireland Council on Voluntary Action (NICVA), and Social Change Initiative (SCI) held a major conference on Thursday 30th and Friday 31st January 2025 at Belfast Castle to address the rise of xenophobia, racism, and Islamophobia in Northern Ireland. The event, organised in response to the violent attacks that took place across the region in the summer of 2024, aimed to foster a collective response from civil society, identify solutions, and discuss how to address the root causes of such violence.

Throughout the event, expert speakers provided insights and panel discussions that allowed participants to ask questions, share their experiences, and contribute to the ongoing conversation.

Róisín Wood, Chief Executive of the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, emphasised the importance of this timely gathering: “Xenophobia, racism, and Islamophobia have no place in our society. The people of Northern Ireland have shown resilience and solidarity in the face of violence, but we must continue to stand together and condemn these hateful acts. This conference is a crucial step in identifying the root causes of violence, exploring policy changes, and sharing successful strategies for creating a more inclusive society. We must work together, as a united community, to address intolerance and hate and promote the values of respect and equality that bind us together.”

Avila Kilmurray from Social Change Initiative (SCI) said: “We must continually identify and challenge the narratives that fuel fear and racism. Through this conference, we will hear from those that have experienced the impact of hate.  We hope that this will empower communities to ensure the  safety of all by working together to reject inequality and injustice, and the attitudes and systems that perpetuate division.”

Tura Arutura, Executive Director at Africa House said: “This conference represents a pivotal moment for our society to unite against the divisive forces of racism, islamophobia and xenophobia. The recent violence has highlighted the urgent need for action and to ensure that every community in Northern Ireland feels safe, valued, and heard. Together, we can create a future where tolerance and inclusion are the foundations of our shared society.

Celine McStravick from NICVA said: “As the community sector, we must take a stand against hate and violence in all forms. This conference provides an essential platform for dialogue, learning, and collaboration. By coming together today, we are sending a clear message that we reject racism, islamophobia and xenophobia, and we are committed to creating a Northern Ireland where diversity is celebrated and protected.”