Lessons learned from Auschwitz

This was an innovative project which brought an alternative perspective to exploring sectarianism and racism by drawing parallels between discrimination leading up to and during World War 2 through a study of the Holocaust.

Attended by participants from across the Council areas of Coleraine, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Limavady, Moyle and Larne, the finale was opened by Richard Totten from the North East PEACE III Partnership who spoke of the importance of sharing the valuable lessons of the Holocaust in order to support the process of mutual understanding in Northern Ireland.

Commenting on the significant impact the project has had on members of their organisation, participant Andrea Morrow from Compass Advocacy Network, said : “One of CAN’s main aims is to be an organisation for informed and empowered individuals who push back the barriers that still unfortunately exist in our communities for people with learning disabilities.

“When we first embarked upon this project there were people who questioned what our members would get out of it.

“Not only do we now have a much broader knowledge of this particular time in history, but we also know a lot more about the world around us too. We have all grown in confidence and are excited and determined to be able to pass this knowledge on to others.”

Stephen McCartney from Northern Regional College, one of the finale speakers spoke of applying his learning through delivering college talks with links to cyber bullying and equality as well as delivering presentations on lessons learned from the Holocaust.

The North East PEACE III Partnership engaged Springboard Opportunities to deliver the project and Jen Ashton, Senior Programme Manger of Springboard Opportunities added: “At the finale of the Holocaust project it was clear to see how much the programme had impacted on the participants.

“They seemed energised not only to share their learning with their peers, friends, family and communities, but the programme has also facilitated a space for individuals and groups to build strong relationships across the NE PEACE III Cluster and that can only be to the benefit of everyone in the area.”

The Project was supported under the European Union’s PEACE III Programme which is managed on behalf of the Special EU Programmes Body by the North East PEACE III Partnership and was launched in May of this year.

The Special EU Programmes Body is a North/South Implementation Body sponsored by the DFP in Northern Ireland and the Department of Finance in Ireland. It is responsible for managing two EU structural funds Programmes PEACE III and INTERREG IVA designed to enhance cross-border co-operation, promote reconciliation and create a more peaceful and prosperous society.