Integrated AlumNI: 2023 Year in Review
As another year comes to a close, we at Integrated AlumNI reflect on the progress made in 2023 to advance the cause of integrated education in Northern Ireland.
Welcome New Team Member - Amelia!
In exciting organisational news, we welcomed Amelia as our new Projects and Development Manager. In this role, Amelia is focused on growing our membership base, improving communications, fostering new partnerships, and working closely with our Chair and Board.
Amelia has worked in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for over three years, and by extension, is passionate about integrated education. She has also written two children’s picture books; the first, ‘The Little Crayon’, a dedication to her son about mixed-race identity, told in allegory through the form of stationery. The second, ‘The Bees and the Wind’, was commissioned by The Council for Integrated Education in celebration of 40 years of integrated education in Northern Ireland (it is available to read or listen to her narration for free here). Amelia says that she is excited for the tasks ahead of her in her new role within Integrated AlumNI.
Inaugural “Education Unplugged” Event a Big Success
We hosted our first “Education Unplugged” event in November at the historic Crumlin Road Gaol. The interactive discussion between DUP MP Ian Paisley Jr. and former hunger striker and Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan demonstrated the importance of integrated education in our society. This event reinforced that divisions still exist and that there is more work to do. But bringing together voices from across the divide for respectful dialogue is progress.
We plan to continue the “Education Unplugged” series, inviting more guests to share perspectives and debate issues related to division and integration in Northern Ireland.
Spotlight on Division at Integrated AlumNI Hustings
In May, we also hosted an important panel discussion during the 2023 council elections, focused on the financial and societal costs of division in Northern Ireland, with an emphasis on the education system. Experts and political party representatives (we had a member of every party represented, except for the DUP) gathered at the Malone Hotel in Belfast for a thoughtful exchange on how integrated schooling can promote equity, friendship, and cultural understanding. The estimated £1 million per day of unnecessary duplication in the education system highlights the need for change.
A Memorable AGM and Film Screening
In June, we held our hybrid Annual General Meeting and Film Screening at the Strand Cinema. For those who joined us in person, there was popcorn and drinks as we conducted the formal AGM business. We approved accounts, discussed the previous year, and talked about plans ahead. Whether online or in-person, members had opportunities to connect with others in the network and learn how to get more involved.
We also screened the powerful film ‘Integrated Education – Through the Eyes of Young People’. This provided great insight into integrated schooling through stories and perspectives of past and present integrated school students.
Belfast/ Good Friday Agreement 25th Anniversary Activities
As part of the 25th anniversary remembrance of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement in April, A number of Integrated AlumNI members participated in several events. Our Chair met with President Bill Clinton to discuss distinctions between shared and integrated education models. We also attended the Hillsborough Castle State Dinner. These were valuable opportunities to connect with key stakeholders and keep integrated education part of the ongoing peace process conversation.
Integrated Education Inquiry: Make Your Voice Heard!
The NI Affairs Committee is holding an important inquiry on Integrated Education and how it can help advance reconciliation in our society. We need as many people and organisations as possible to submit evidence to inform the Committee's recommendations. You don't need to be an expert or answer every question to submit - this is your chance to share why Integrated Education matters and suggest ways the government can support its expansion.
We ask that you take the time to submit evidence; for further information, please click here for guidance on how you can get involved.
And finally, Thank You!
As we enter 2024, Integrated AlumNI remains committed to being a leading voice for integrated education. We aim to continue growing our platform and building the integrated education movement. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing what the new year holds for us and integrated education in Northern Ireland.
We are delighted to receive your feedback on the work we do. Get in touch at hello@integratedalumni.org
