Event Highlights
The event featured notable keynote speakers who provided valuable insights into community cohesion:
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The Lord Mayor, Councillor Dale Smith: Emphasised the importance of community cohesion in Bradford, highlighting the city’s diversity and the need for mutual respect among its residents.
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Michelle Scott, Positive Bradford: Shared experiences from the “Positive Bradford” initiative, which celebrates the city’s diversity and works towards uniting its communities.
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Azad Ali, Engage: Discussed the significance of civic engagement and political participation, particularly among British Muslims, to combat racism and Islamophobia.
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David Ward MP, Bradford East: Reflected on the challenges and opportunities in enhancing community cohesion, stressing the roles of freedom, responsibility, and community support.
Workshop Discussions
Participants engaged in workshops addressing key topics:
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Challenges in Organising Diversity Events: Identified obstacles such as language barriers, cultural differences, and the need for inclusive planning to ensure successful events.
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Encouraging Political Participation: Explored strategies to build trust and confidence in political processes, emphasising the role of education and grassroots engagement.
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Increasing Community Cohesion: Discussed methods to foster dialogue, shared activities, and collaborative campaigns to bring diverse communities together.
Community Cascade Programme
The event also highlighted the achievements of COEMO’s Community Cascade Programme (2009-2012), a West Yorkshire-wide initiative supported by the Big Lottery Fund. The programme provided support to community anchors and faith-based networks, focusing on:
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Community Cohesion: Promoting shared visions and improving relationships between community organisations.
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Marketing: Assisting organisations in effectively promoting their services.
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Funding Advice: Offering guidance on securing financial resources.
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Environmental Sustainability: Encouraging eco-friendly practices within community projects.
Over its duration, the programme provided one-to-one support to 72 organisations, facilitated 27 exchange visits between diverse faith and ethnic communities, and conducted numerous workshops across West Yorkshire.
Conclusion
COEMO’s “Celebrating Community Cohesion in West Yorkshire” event served as a catalyst for meaningful discussions and collaborations aimed at strengthening community ties. By bringing together diverse voices and experiences, the event underscored the importance of unity, mutual respect, and active participation in fostering a cohesive society.