My own experience with bonfires isn't a good one for personal reasons, but I can still recognise there is good work being done across many bonfire sites to ensure they are as safe and respectful as possible. That fact is often lost in the discourse. 1/9
I've met bonfire builders in my own constituency, and what I've found are young people who simply want to express their culture in a positive way, where community safety and respect are paramount. They're not the sectarian boogeymen that many like to portray them as. 2/9
Are there significant problems with some bonfires in NI? Yes. The horrendous racism on display at Moygashel should be called out for what it is. The severe lack of leadership & disregard for community safety at the village site should also be called out. We need to do better 3/9
However, these sites are not the norm and frankly never have been. Those groups on the ground who work with the local community, the psni, fire service, and local reps to deliver a safe and respectful bonfire night should be commended. As a local rep, I do commend them. 4/9
While I won't be attending a bonfire in my constituency tonight, I do want to pay tribute to those groups in the area that I represent who do the positive work, because they dont get praised enough. 5/9
As a Green, it may be seen as controversial by some that I would be seen to support bonfires in any capacity. So let me be clear, bonfires are a valid and traditional form of cultural expression, I didn't always believe that, but I've learned more, so I believe it now. 6/9
I do, however, give extra praise to those groups who utilise the council beacons programme. Beacons are carbon neutral and first class in delivering a safe bonfire. We have seen an expansion of that scheme in recent years, which is nothing but positive. 7/9
We have to acknowledge the significance of events this time of year for many people in our communities. We can all learn to be more generous and have the courage to be open to uncomfortable conversations, I certainly have. 8/9
For some in our community, tonight's events will instil a sense of fear & anxiety, I know that because I used to experience it, those feelings are valid & shouldn't be dismissed, it is up to us to speak to eachother. I hope everyone has a safe and respectful 11th night 👍 9/9
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