When we were based in Lincoln we developed a number of projects working to help break down cultural barriers, dispel myths about immigration and improve relationships in Lincolnshire between migrant communities and local residents.
These projects were important for the development of community cohesion as there was some significant tensions in the area, particularly in South East Lincolnshire.
One example is our Magna Carter Radion play, where our writer, Darren Bolton was commissioned to write a series of radio plays to be showcased at the Festival 800 Poets Laureate Landscape Event. For this, Darren worked alongside the Lithuanian community in Boston, who told their experiences of travelling to and living in the U.K. and then were supported to write a series of radio plays about these experiences. Some also performed in the plays. Exploring the themes of freedom of speech, human rights and democracy.
Another example is a project we received funding for from Awards for All to work with Lincoln residents, some U.K. born, others originally from other countries. This was a photography project that supported the group to reflect on their identity, learn the basics of photography and take their own images capturing their own Identities. This culminated in an exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery in Lincoln entitled ‘Identity’ to celebrate both similarities and differences of different people and cultures living in Lincoln. It was also a chance for participants to celebrate their work and feel a sense of self-worth in being exhibited at a local arts gallery.