The PL20NI project, initiated in October 2023 by For Your Freedom & Ours CIC, is a ground-breaking endeavour aimed at exploring the Polish community in Northern Ireland since 2004. The collaboration with six different groups, including POLCA - Polish Language, Culture and Affairs in Belfast, Polish Abroad in Derry/Londonderry, Building Communities Resource Centre in Ballymoney, STEP in Dungannon, Omagh Ethnic Communities Support, NI Rural Women’s Network, demonstrates a concerted effort to delve deep into the heritage, experiences, and contributions of the Polish community in the region.
With successfully obtained funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the main objective of the project is to conduct a comprehensive research initiative that includes workshops, engagement with community groups, public events, storytelling sessions, and the creation of an exhibition and publication.
Through these various activities, the project seeks to unravel the complexities of the Polish community's presence in Northern Ireland over the past two decades, shedding light on their impact on the local heritage and their relationship with the broader society.
By documenting the stories, experiences, and challenges faced by the Polish community, the PL20NI project aims to establish a virtual library of narratives that will serve as a testament to their journey of making Northern Ireland their home. This ambitious undertaking will not only capture the voices and perspectives of the local Poles but also those who have joined them in their quest for integration and cultural exchange.
Through the exploration of the Polish community's heritage and history in Northern Ireland, the project hopes to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse cultural tapestry that exists within the region. By highlighting the unique contributions and struggles of the Polish community, the project aims to celebrate their resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to creating a sense of belonging in their adopted home.
