The Charter was developed through a series of meetings and community consultation workshops organised by the Bloody Sunday Trust, the North West Migrants Forum and the Irish Network Against Racism, with the final version devised by local playwright and author, Dave Duggan.
It is a statement of intent, delivering a way for businesses, organisations, community groups, schools and individuals to push back against the rise of racist messaging and actions in the region.
Handing over the Charter to Mrs. Julie McCarter, Principal and Ms. Daisy Mules, chair of the board of governors and the School’s Council, the Mayor heaped praise on the school for becoming part of the charter and all it stands for.
Mayor McHugh said: “The Charter is a powerful statement from the local community that we reject racism, xenophobia and hate in all its forms. It’s great credit to the Principal Mrs. McCarter, chair Ms. Mules, staff, and indeed, the school council and pupils of Model Primary School for endorsing the Anti-Racism Charter. Well done to all involved.”
Thanking the Mayor for his kind words, Principal, Mrs. McCarter added: “As a school community we are proud to adopt the North West Anti-Racism Charter. It appropriately reflects our commitment to respect, inclusion and equality. Governers and staff unanimously believe it is something we can aspire to and support.”
Ms. Mules added: “The Charter perfectly complements our school ethos of ‘celebrating cultural diversity.’ With a school population of 14 ethnicities incorporating 9 languages, we strive to build a community where differences are not just accepted but celebrated too.”
During Friday’s visit the Mayor met with the School Council, had photos taken with the P1 group and then enjoyed refreshments in the school library.
The North West Anti-Racism Charter was formally launched in October.
Speaking at that event Mayor McHugh, said said: “The Charter is a powerful statement from the local community that we reject racism, xenophobia and hate in all its forms. The people of Derry and Strabane have a long and proud history of standing together against division and this Charter is a continuation of that legacy."
1. The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Ruairi McHugh pictured with the P1 class at Model Primary School last week. Included at back, from left are Ms. Corinna Wilson, LSA, Ms. Shauna Marie Gallen, teacher, Mrs. Julie McCarter, Principal, Ms. Daisy Mules, chair, board of governors and Ms. Grace Canning, LSA. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Ruairi McHugh pictured with the P1 class at Model Primary School last week. Included at back, from left are Ms. Corinna Wilson, LSA, Ms. Shauna Marie Gallen, teacher, Mrs. Julie McCarter, Principal, Ms. Daisy Mules, chair, board of governors and Ms. Grace Canning, LSA. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography) Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography
2. The Mayor, Ruairi McHugh in conversation with some of the pupils from the School Council at Model PS last week.
The Mayor, Ruairi McHugh in conversation with some of the pupils from the School Council at Model PS last week. Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography
3. The Model PS Student Council receiving the 'Anti-Racism Charter' from the Mayor, Ruairi McHugh at the school last week. Included are Ms. Daisy Mules, chair, board of governors, and Mrs. Julie McCarter, Principal. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)
The Model PS Student Council receiving the 'Anti-Racism Charter' from the Mayor, Ruairi McHugh at the school last week. Included are Ms. Daisy Mules, chair, board of governors, and Mrs. Julie McCarter, Principal. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography) Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography
4. Ms. Daisy Mules, chair, board of governors welcomes the Mayor to the Model PS as the student council hold a guard of honour.
Ms. Daisy Mules, chair, board of governors welcomes the Mayor to the Model PS as the student council hold a guard of honour. Photo: Jim McCafferty Photography