Ulster GAA, Ulster Camogie and Ulster LGFA joined together at the recent Belfast MELA Festival, engaging with new communities and showcasing Gaelic Games as a welcoming, inclusive and accessible space for all.
Partnering with Belfast MELA as a ‘Friend of MELA’ during the festival’s historic 20th anniversary year represented a significant highlight of the recent Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) work undertaken across the three Associations.
The partnership provided an important opportunity to bring Gaelic Games beyond the traditional sporting environment and into one of Ireland’s largest celebrations of culture, diversity and community.
Throughout the summer, staff from Ulster GAA, Ulster Camogie and Ulster LGFA participated in a number of MELA events, including The Carnival, the Earth Child event at Titanic Slipway and MELA Day itself.
The Carnival provided a fantastic opportunity to celebrate alongside thousands of people, bringing the three Gaelic Games codes together in support of an event which recognises and celebrates the many cultures, identities and communities that make up our diverse society.
The Earth Child event was a spectacular outdoor aerial performance featuring storytelling, fire, dance and music, while MELA Day provided an opportunity for direct engagement with members of the public.
Staff from all three Associations were on hand throughout the day to answer questions, discuss opportunities and introduce people to Gaelic Games. The popular speed cage proved to be a particular attraction, giving visitors the opportunity to get involved, have fun and experience Gaelic Games in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
While the activities provided an excellent way to engage people, it was the conversations throughout the events that were at the heart of the initiative.
Representatives from Ulster GAA, Ulster Camogie and Ulster LGFA spoke with people from across our diverse communities, including many who may not previously have had a connection with Gaelic Games. These conversations provided an opportunity to highlight the playing and volunteering opportunities available through our clubs, answer questions about how people can become involved and, importantly, listen to the experiences and perspectives of those we engaged with.
This is central to what inclusion means in practice: creating opportunities to meet people, listen to them and ensure they know that there is a place for them within Gaelic Games. It also means actively engaging with diverse communities and recognising the significant value that greater diversity brings to our clubs and wider communities.
Our involvement with Belfast MELA forms part of a wider commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across Ulster GAA, Ulster Camogie and Ulster LGFA.
By working together, the three Associations remain committed to breaking down barriers, building meaningful relationships with diverse communities and ensuring that everyone feels welcome, valued and able to participate in Gaelic Games.
Gaelic Games are for everyone, and we want everyone to know that they have a place within our clubs, our games and our communities. Tá áit dúinn uilig ann.
