Crossan calls on Council to adopt anti-racism charter

Inishowen County Councillor Terry Crossan has put forward a motion calling on Donegal County Council to adopt an anti-racism charter, similar to the recent North West Anti-Racism Charter, “as a matter of urgency.”

The Sinn Féin politician recently attended the launch of the charter by the North West Anti-Racism group in Bridgend. 

The charter, which was developed at a meeting held in Derry as part of the 2025 commemoration of Bloody Sunday, pledges supporters to: “Oppose all harm by words and actions on the basis of difference of race and colour … live together, love together, struggle together, thrive together…hold ourselves and others to account for racist words and actions … commit to policies and practices that oppose division by race and colour … promote these attitudes throughout our region in the north west of Ireland … say no to racism.” 

At last month's Donegal County Council meeting the Leas Cathaoirleach for the Inishowen Municipal District said copies of the charter should be made available and displayed "in workspaces, social spaces and anywhere where people gather to oppose racism, and should be made widely available throughout the county."

"The charter would give everyone an easy way to show where they stand on this serious issue. We urge businesses and community groups across the region to get a copy and have it on display."

READ NEXT: Two XL Bully dogs surrendered in Donegal since ban was introduced

The South Inishowen Councillor believes that the charter should be endorsed on an All-Ireland approach to help clamp down on racist behaviour. 

“By adopting such a charter, you are sending out a message that hate speech and divisive actions are not welcome and will not be tolerated in school, office or home, businesses or community halls, or any other place."

North Inishowen SF Councillor Albert Doherty seconded the motion. In response, Mr Liam Ward, DCC Director of Services, said the sentiments of Councillor Crossan's motion would be supported by everyone in the Council.

"Donegal County Council was a leading member of the group formulating that strategy. I believe the bones of what you're seeking to be done Councillor Crossan are there, and are in place"

“I note your commentary on having it available and on display. I am certainly happy to feed that back to the implementation team.”