Cork and Kerry Unite to Launch New Anti-Racism Resource and Campaign
Cork and Kerry launch new anti-racism resource to help communities identify and challenge racism through practical guidance and scenario-based support tools.
A comprehensive new resource designed to help communities identify, challenge and respond to racism has been launched today in a joint initiative between Cork and Kerry, marking a significant step forward in promoting inclusion across Munster.
The Integration, Inclusion and Anti-Racism Resource was unveiled at the Tralee International Resource Centre in County Kerry as part of the "Championing Inclusion: Building a Stronger Ireland Together" campaign. The initiative brings together multiple organisations from both counties to provide practical, actionable guidance for communities, organisations and individuals.
Developed collaboratively by the Children and Young People Services Committees (CYPSC) of Cork and Kerry, the resource was created in partnership with Kerry Community Integration Forum, Cork and Kerry Local Authority Integration Teams, Cork Migrant Centre, the Cork Migrant Centre Youth Initiative, Nano Nagle Place, and Cork City and County LAITs. The project received funding through the Department of Children, Disability and Equality under the National Action Plan Against Racism (NAPAR).
The resource addresses the practical challenges communities face when encountering racism by clearly defining key concepts such as anti-racism, microaggressions, and safe spaces using accessible language and real-world examples. A traffic light system helps users assess risk levels, while scenario-based guidance provides clear direction on how to respond effectively to racist incidents in everyday situations.
Claire O'Toole, Coordinator, Kerry Children and Young People Services Committee, said:
"This initiative reflects the collective efforts of many of our organisations across Cork and Kerry together with those with lived experience of racism, as well as youth and practitioner focus groups to create inclusive and safe shared spaces for everyone. Through knowledge and collective action, we all have a role in shaping an inclusive future where all feel valued, understood, and supported. This resource and campaign will help guide that change."
The comprehensive resource is now available online at kerrytogether.ie/guides and forms part of the 2024 Integration and Inclusion Strategy for Cork and Kerry.
Children and Young People's Services Committees operate in every county across Ireland as key government structures designed to improve outcomes for children and young people through coordinated local and national interagency working. They bring together statutory, community and voluntary service providers to ensure families receive improved and accessible services.
