Project Description
The programme will explore the broad spectrum of Unionism and Loyalism, in particular, the Loyal Orange Lodges and Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland. This programme will challenge the concept that they are a homogenous group of people, will explore their engagement with Peace and Reconciliation initiatives and will support the articulation of their views, aspirations and fears whilst providing a practical range of activities and opportunities to engage them, supporting them to platform themselves.
The Programme will address the following key issues:
- Lack of capacity amongst the PUL/ Orange communities.
- Lack of communication channels between local community and other partners.
- Lack of confidence amongst the PUL/ Orange community in expressing their culture.
- Lack of wider understanding PUL/ Orange Heritage & History.
- Current Cross-Community Fears/Myths that still exist.
- The Orange Order’s relationship with Peace and Reconciliation initiatives.
- Lack of participation from the PUL/ Orange community in previous Peace programmes.
By the end of the programme, the following targets will have been achieved:
- Recruitment of 100+ participants.
- A codesign exercise for an educational programme.
- Delivery of a scoping exercise demonstrating the value of the Orange Order in terms of social capital, best practice and economic contribution.
- Delivery of a learning and development programme.
- Deliver a positive cultural promotion programme which provides both the education and practical tools.
- Creation of a series of cross community and cross border participative activities.
- Delivery of a vehicle which platforms local Orangeism across the Borough.
- Engagement in a safe and structured setting with people from another community.
BUDGET: £113,416.00