For ethnic minorities living in Northern Ireland it is often difficult to engage in current conversations around topical issues like Brexit. The reason they give is that todays topics and current conversations are often grounded on and use the language and make such continual reference to the past that unless they understand the politics and constitutional positions of a century ago they are often at a loss to understand the modern debates and discussions. The ‘I in NI’ project will help connect new audiences with old issues in new ways. It is inspiring to listen to academics and experts whose passion and knowledge is a mine of information. However after we as a team listen and learn our real work begins as we take the knowledge and make it easy to understand and digest for those who are not just new to the issues but even new to the language. So join us as we learn and in turn teach others and together undertake this journey of discovery.

May 3rd 1921 saw the Government of Ireland Act come into effect. To mark this event a panel discussion was held in the Ulster Museum reflecting on the momentum events of a century ago and their impact today.

One hundred years on, the 3rd May anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on events of that time and have respectful discussions around this landmark date in our shared history that has shaped these islands.

The Historical Advisory Panel, appointed by the Secretary of State in the summer of 2020 launched a series of panel lectures which provided a platform to set the historical narrative and provide a balanced voice in the debate around the creation of the border of the island of Ireland 100 years ago.

There is no doubt that this landmark date in our history meant different things to different people, but through the Historical Advisory Panel’s work and events, we hope these acted as a platform for open dialogue and discussion to help understand the many diverse perspectives and experiences.

The first panel event, in association with the NIO, was a virtual panel discussion on 4th May. It took the form of an in-person panel discussion live from the Ulster Museum with the Historical Advisory Panel members and was moderated by BBC NI broadcaster, Tara Mills.

The audience was invited from a wide spectrum, including academic, historical, political and media representatives.