Senator Harmon urges Cork to stand united against racism at weekend carnival
Senator Harmon urges Cork to stand united against racism at weekend carnival - The Labour Party
Labour’s Senator Laura Harmon has urged people across Cork to join the Cork Against Racism Carnival this Saturday, November 1st at 2:30pm on Grand Parade, directly following the Cork Palestine Solidarity March. The carnival, which will be attended by the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, is a community-led celebration of solidarity and resistance against the rise of racism and hate in Ireland.
Organised by a coalition of local groups, the event will feature music and dance from Cork’s Romanian, Indian and Mexican communities, as well as powerful speeches from across the city’s ethnic communities, bringing people together to say clearly that Cork stands for respect, peace and equality for all.
Senator Harmon said:
“Now more than ever, we need to show that Cork is a city that celebrates diversity and rejects hate in all its forms. The rise in racist and homophobic attacks across Ireland in recent months has been deeply disturbing. Communities are frightened, and people who have made Cork their home are feeling less safe. That is not the Ireland we want or believe in.”
“The Cork Against Racism Carnival is a chance for all of us to come together in a spirit of solidarity, to say loudly and clearly that there is no room for racism, hate or division in our city. Cork has always been a place of welcome and warmth, and this weekend’s carnival will reflect that – through music, culture and the voices of people from every background who make our city what it is.
“I’m asking everyone who believes in an open and inclusive Ireland to join us this Saturday. Come to the Grand Parade at 2:30pm for the Cork Against Racism Carnival, to march together in hope and solidarity. Bring your friends, your families, your flags and your music – and let’s make it a vibrant show of unity. Together, we can send a powerful message: Cork stands against racism, and always will.”
Fahmeda Naheed, Founder of the Irish Pakistani Community of Cork has said:
“This event centres on the powerful message that anti-racism, solidarity, and community action can make Ireland stronger. Having personally experienced racism and through years of community work, it is clear that we must acknowledge and reflect on the real challenges racism creates for individuals and families.”
Green Party Councillor and former Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork, Honore Kamegni has said:
“This Saturday’s Carnival is a family-friendly event where everyone is welcome. Cork is a warm, inclusive city, and I encourage all political parties, community groups, and residents to come together to celebrate in unity, peace, and love.
Unfortunately, recent Garda data shows that hate crime rose by 4% across Ireland in 2024, reminding us that while Ireland has made progress in legislation and awareness, racism remains a significant and measurable problem.
“Let’s stand together to ensure Cork continues to be a place of respect, equality, and belonging for all.”
Dr Lekha Menon Margassery, President of UCC Indian Alumni has said:
“This rally is about unity through action. It’s about refusing to look away, refusing to stay silent, and refusing to accept hate as normal. Antiracism means choosing empathy, justice and love together. It includes standing shoulder to shoulder for justice that includes everyone.”
Cecilia Gamez, co-founder of Mexican Community in Cork has said:
“Our group doesn’t just celebrate diversity, we live it. We listen, we share, and we amplify voices from all backgrounds. Since our beginnings in 2002, the Mexican Community in Cork has grown not only in numbers but in purpose building bridges, creating shared spaces, and strengthening the multicultural fabric of our city. We are delighted to be collaborating on this Carnival.”