Statement - Justice Minister calls for respectful and peaceful celebrations over Bank Holiday weekend
Date published:
As we enter the Twelfth period, I am appealing to everyone across Northern Ireland to mark this event with dignity, mutual respect, and a true sense of community spirit.
The summer months offer a wonderful opportunity to showcase the absolute best of our local neighbourhoods – our hospitality, our culture, and our ability to welcome everyone.
I recognise the deep sense of identity these events represent for many people. They can and should be occasions where communities come together in a spirit of inclusiveness and pride, through local traditions. Many well organised family-orientated events will take place and will be thoroughly enjoyed by thousands of people.
To ensure that everyone can feel safe and included, we must all commit to keeping our celebrations positive, peaceful and respectful of the backgrounds and cultures of everyone in our society.
Mutual respect is the foundation of strong, safe communities and there should be no place for hate or intimidation.
Because of this, I am explicitly appealing to an end to the placing of effigies and symbols of hatred on bonfires.
These actions do not reflect the pride of culture of many people celebrating. Instead, they cause deep, unnecessary hurt, widen divisions, and distract each other from what should be a peaceful, family-orientated event for those who wish to celebrate the event.
I would appeal to bonfire organisers, community leaders, and residents to show strong leadership this week and over the bank holiday weekend. We want the celebrations to remain entirely focused on heritage, free from intimidation or offence.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our emergency services, community workers and volunteers who will be working tirelessly over the holidays to keep us all safe. To our young people – I would urge you to focus on the celebrations, keep yourself and your friends safe and not be drawn into anything that would impact your future.
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