Clashing Symbols! So where are you really from?

Clashing Symbols? So where are you really from? is an interactive discussion that asks people to imagine and propose alternative ways to express national and cultural identity without using the F(lag) word.

With input from a panel including Irish Language Commissioner Pól Deeds and Ulster Scots/Ulster British Commissioner Lee Reynolds the event is convened by the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression.

The event will enable people to offer and respond to suggestions about how or whether we need to express these things at all. All very serious stuff…….or is it?

Imagine if expressions of national identity were designed by consensus, and symbols were agreed by consultation and compromise: Is that what we want?

Could we do it? Why would we do it?

The National and Cultural Principles are outlined in the Identity and Language (Northern Ireland) Act 2022. They are:

The principle that everybody in Northern Ireland is free to choose, affirm, maintain and develop their national and cultural identity, and express and celebrate that identity in a manner that takes account of the sensitivities of those with different national and cultural identities and respects the rule of law, and

The principle that public authorities should encourage and promote reconciliation, tolerance and meaningful dialogue between those with different national and cultural identities with a view to promoting parity of esteem, mutual respect and understanding, and cooperation.

All very serious stuff…….….or is it?