CORK in IRELAND REMEMBERS: STORIES OF HOME, HARDSHIP AND SOLIDARITY

We will begin with a short presentation about the Great Irish Famine, which took place between 1845 and 1852 IRELAND REMEMBERS: STORIES OF HOME, HARDSHIP AND SOLIDARITY Join us in Cork for a free community event marking the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This event connects Ireland’s history with the experiences of people who have faced poverty, displacement, forced migration and the challenge of building a new life. The programme will have three parts: • Ireland Remembers – Historical Presentation We will begin with a short presentation about the Great Irish Famine, which took place between 1845 and 1852. The failure of the potato crop caused widespread hunger, but poverty, evictions and the political and economic system of that time made the disaster much worse. About one million people died, and around two million people left Ireland in search of safety and a better life. We will remember those who suffered, lost their homes and families, or were forced to leave their country. We will also consider how this history can help us understand poverty, housing insecurity and migration today. • Personal Stories of Migration, Strength and Hope Participants will be invited to share personal stories of forced migration and starting a new life in another country. We will talk about the difficulties people experience, where they find the strength to continue, and which positive and supportive words can help them and others during challenging times. Sharing a personal story is completely voluntary. Everyone is welcome to speak, listen and support others in a safe and respectful atmosphere. • Creative Clay Workshop – “Don’t Give Up!” In the final part, participants will create small symbolic figures from clay. Each figure will become a personal reminder of strength, hope and the ability to continue, whatever happens around us. The message of the workshop is simple but powerful: Don’t give up! Participants will be able to take their figures home as a reminder that difficult times can be overcome and that we can continue growing without losing our kindness, dignity, compassion and humanity. No previous art experience is needed. Date: Saturday, 17 October 2026 Time: 5:00 p.m. Venue: 19 Dominick Street, Shandon, Cork, T23 D76V Admission: Free Advance registration is required. Contact: Elena: +353 852013442 Julia Email: [email protected] The event is organised and delivered by Integration & Wellbeing Cork. The Department of Social Protection supports this project as part of its funding initiative for the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. #17October #EndPoverty #IrelandRemembers