Despite recent controversy surrounding the treatment of some Ukrainian refugees in Drogheda, the My Streets summer craft activities integration project has been a great success.
Its lantern making workshops, which finished this week, involved participants from Ukraine and local groups showcasing their creations which were made during a series of workshops in the West Court run by local artist Jennifer Moonan.
Explaining the theme of the workshops ‘Home’ Jennifer said that the Irish tradition of lighting a candle in a window, dates back centuries. During times of hardship, a lit candle is placed in the window as a sign of welcome, especially for those who were seeking refuge. Today it symbolizes hospitality, warmth, and a sense of community.
Speaking on behalf of the Ukrainian participants, Olha Helga, said that they were thrilled to take part especially as the workshops included local participants which meant that people from different backgrounds could get to know each other. It was significant, she said, that many of the lanterns were painted with sunflowers which was a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience.
Chair of My Streets Michael O’Dowd said that this was one of a series of events that would be run over the summer to help integrate the new arrivals into the town.
“We have also worked with the Highlanes Gallery and have a number of other programmes in the pipeline” he said.
“Our project received funding from the Community Response fund supported by the Community Response Coalition and we are very grateful to Change X for their help.
My Streets also expressed their gratitude to Valerie and all the team in the West Court for their assistance.
