Student-led drama tackles hate crime and promotes inclusion across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon borough
The student-led drama, titled 'Speak Up', aims to raise awareness of hate crime, respect and inclusion across the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon borough, with performances delivered to audiences this week.
New student-led drama aimed at raising awareness of hate crime, respect and inclusion has been launched across the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon borough.
The production, titled "Speak Up", was officially opened in the presence of Naomi Long, Minister of Justice, and is being performed by students from the Performing Arts Department at Southern Regional College.
The thought-provoking Theatre in Education programme is being delivered to audiences across the borough this week, encouraging discussion around prejudice, discrimination and the importance of creating communities where everyone feels welcome and valued.
In a social media post, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Policing and Community Safety Partnership said it was "delighted" to welcome the Justice Minister to the opening performance.
The partnership described the production as a powerful educational resource that challenges young people and wider audiences to consider the impact of hate crime and the role everyone can play in building a more inclusive society.
Performed by students from Southern Regional College, the drama explores themes of respect, understanding and acceptance, using theatre as a means of encouraging conversation and reflection.
The initiative has been developed through a collaborative partnership involving Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Policing and Community Safety Partnership, ABC Community Development, the Hate Crime Advocacy Service, the PSNI, The Executive Office and Southern Regional College.
Organisers said the project highlights the value of partnership working in tackling important social issues and engaging with local communities through creative and meaningful educational programmes.
The involvement of local students has also been praised, with performers using their talents to bring important messages to life and encourage audiences to think about the effects of prejudice and exclusion.
In its statement, the PCSP thanked everyone involved in the project and acknowledged the work that went into delivering the production across the borough.
The organisation said the programme aims to inspire positive conversations within communities and help promote greater understanding, respect, and inclusion.
The performances form part of wider efforts to increase awareness of hate crime and encourage people to challenge prejudice wherever it occurs, while fostering safer and more welcoming communities throughout the borough.