KASI Celebrating Diversity and Shared Values at Killarney Event this Human Rights Day
(Press Release: 22nd November 2024) KASI – Killarney Immigrant Support Centre are hosting ‘KASI Le Chéile’ on Saturday 7th December, to mark Human Rights Day (Tuesday 10th December) and the promotion of diversity and equality of for all people in our society. Marilyn Catapat-Counihan, Coordinator of KASI, outlines how recognising shared values, as well as differences, is key to achieving equality for all.
“This is our main gathering of the year, and we want to make sure everyone in Killarney is welcome to make it special. With global events and news cycles providing a worrying indictment for the direction our world is taking, particularly in the past year, it is important to remember to celebrate shared values, hopes and dreams for now and into the future, for our shared values bring us together.”
“Everyone wants what’s best for their families, friends and communities. And differences in themselves should also be celebrated, rather than be a cause for division, as some small but loud groups in society have begun to do. Gathering under shared values while celebrating that diversity makes life truly interesting, and is what we’re all about in KASI.”
Difference is the Essence of Humanity
“As the great John Hume said; “Difference is the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth, and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.””
“Acknowledging and celebrating our diversity is itself defies those who want to sow division.”
KASI has supported over 1,000 people from a migrant background in the past year, providing advice and information on rights and entitlements, as well as advocating and supporting people personally. The organisation also organises intercultural days, such as KASI Le Chéile, as a forum for new and local communities to gather.
Dignity and Respect
“I want to invite any and all people in Killarney and Kerry to join this gathering of mutual respect and equality on 7th December”, says Ms Counihan. “We also invite people to reach out the next time they meet someone new to the area, and to say ‘you are welcome here’, or any other positive words that come to mind, without prejudice, as we do for short-term visitors who we so readily welcome here. “
“If Ireland is to live up to it’s label as ‘The Land of a Thousand Welcomes’, we need to make sure that welcome is offered to all, and not just a few. We have a rich history of charity and humanitarian work overseas, influence in international affairs, and general support of people experiencing injustice in their hour of need. We should not risk undermining that legacy by treating people who come here for safety, security and a better life with anything other than dignity and respect.”
‘KASI Le Chéile’ intercultural day is being held at St Oliver’s Primary School, Ballycasheen, Kilalrney, from 2pm-5pm on Saturday 7th December. All people are welcome to this all-ages event.
