JanineIn a spectacular display of unity and celebration at the Bridge Community Church in Harehills for the International Day of Cultural Celebration last Friday.
The event featured music, dance, and food from around the globe, all with a focus on promoting unity.
Performers from nine countries, including the Philippines, Nigeria, Ghana, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Eritrea, and the Caribbean, took to the stage, captivating the audience.
Highlights included Nigeria’s Igbo Women’s Cultural Group, traditional Irish dancing by the Gibbons Academy, and the evocative sounds of Strings of Life from Hong Kong. Attendees were also treated to dishes representing four nations, showcasing the culinary diversity of the city.
The event was hosted by Dr. Kendi Guantai of Leeds University and John Ebo from Leeds City Council. Speaking at the festival, Lord Mayor Cllr Abigail Marshall Katung delivered a powerful message about the city’s strength in diversity.
“Leeds is a city of many stories, languages, traditions, and heritage,” she said. “Today we have a wonderful opportunity to gather together, to learn from each other, and to share in the richness of each of the cultures performing for us. We are here to build bridges, to promote harmony in our neighbourhoods, and to overcome the divisive forces we sometimes see in the media.”
Organised by key community groups such as The Leeds African Community Trust, The Hamara Centre, AfriKindness, and The David Oluwale Memorial Association, the festival was part of a larger initiative by the Lord Mayor to foster community cohesion. Funding came from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Leeds City Council, and the government’s new belonging programme.
Organisers hope the festival will become an annual tradition, reinforcing Leeds as a city that embraces its multicultural identity.
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