THE HUMAN FACE OF CONFLICT (Delivery 6)

When people speak truthfully warts and all in a space where all views are respected and can be challenged profound learning happens. This has been the story of epilogues deliveries since the journey began back in 2005. This delivery was no different. It took place in the Inishowen Gateway Hotel, Buncrana, Co Donegal beginning Tuesday 19th October 2022 and concluding on Friday 4th November. A big thanks on behalf of one and to the staff that looked after us. The host organisation was TRIAX Neighbourhood Partnership, Brandywell, Derry. A big thanks also to Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust and the Irish government’s Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund without whose support this delivery could not be possible. 

Some comments from participants (see Perspectives menu for video feedback): 

• “My way of thinking about the past has changed”
• “I am mixing more with people from other areas. Areas that I wouldn’t have gone into before I did this programme.”
• “I really admire the people who took part in making the programme. Eugene Reavey is a remarkable human being and deserves a lot of recognition for his forgiveness.”
• “I have thought a lot about situations in my own life (not related to the troubles) that I realise I could have handled differently + been a lot more understanding + forgiving.“
• “I am more aware if not immediately if my words have hurt or offend someone. Even if unintentionally”
• “The first week I felt very emotional/vulnerable and wasn’t sure I wanted to complete. I’m glad I did come back, it has helped me process it. Hell of a learning curve.
• “The course has been an eye opener for me. It has been tough to take at times but the things learned alone the way seem to override the tough parts. I welcome the views of others and as such find my own views valid.”

As part of this deliver to womens’ groups across the north, this cohort of graduates will gather with three other cohorts in 2023. The purpose of that gathering will be to access what if any have been the long-term impacts of having completed the epilogues programme, to widen and deepen the connections already forged by their participation and to explore possible next steps for each participants as active citizens, be that on an individual or a collective basis going forward.