New York Times journalist to address Ballina conference

BALLINA native and New York Times journalist Declan Walsh will be among a number of guests who will address a conference organised by Mayo Says No to Racism.

'Cairdeas Le Chéile: Building an Inclusive Mayo Together’, a thought-provoking seminar as part of Social Inclusion Awareness Week will take place at Ballina Arts Centre on Wednesday, October 11, from 9.30 am to 1pm.

Cairdeas Le Chéile's primary objective is to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities, fostering constructive dialogue, advancing social inclusion, and addressing critical matters pertaining to diversity and racism.

The seminar will feature an impactful address by Ballina native Declan Walsh, connecting live from Kenya. Declan, who is The New York Times' Chief Africa Correspondent, has previously covered the Middle East while stationed in Egypt and reported from Pakistan. His credentials also include work at The Guardian, and he is the author of The Nine Lives of Pakistan.

Dr John Mulloy, a lecturer specialising in Art History, Critical Theory, Rural Arts, and Arts-based Community Development at Atlantic Technological University, will deliver a keynote speech. He will also moderate a panel discussion titled 'Through My Eyes', featuring individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds sharing their personal experiences and insights on racism.

Following the panel discussion, attendees can look forward to a Q&A session, enabling them to engage with the speakers and delve deeper into the subject matter.

The seminar will include presentations highlighting positive community initiatives supporting social inclusion in Ballina.

Topics will encompass the Karen Community Garden, the Ballina 2023 Volunteer Programme, and This Giant Tent, a project developed in collaboration with Ballina's Traveller Community. Attendees can also anticipate entertainment and light refreshments during the event.

Oein De Bhairduin, a writer, activist, and educator dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Traveller tales, sayings, retellings, and historical exchanges, will be present at the seminar. Oein will also unveil an exciting new program of events.

Mayo Says No to Racism operates as a subgroup of the LCDC Social Inclusion and Community Development Working Group, which is chaired by local councillor Neil Cruise.

Speaking about the seminar, Cllr Cruise said: “This event promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking day, where fostering greater understanding and engagement from a diverse range of communities will be discussed.

“As chairperson of the LCDC Social Inclusion and Community Development Working Group, I believe these types of events are key to addressing critical matters pertaining to diversity and racism.”

Admission to the Cairdeas Le Chéile Conference is free; however, registration is mandatory via Eventbrite to secure your spot at this event at https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/722609202577?aff=oddtdtcreator.

This conference represents a collaborative endeavour involving Mayo Says No to Racism, Ballina 2023, and Mayo County Council and is part of the Ballina 2023 program and the Ballina Fringe Festival.