Ladies and gentlemen,
Good day to you all! It’s an absolute honor and privilege to stand before you today and introduce our organization, the Igbo Union Stoke on Trent, at this significant Black History Month event.
The Igbo Union Stoke on Trent UK was founded in 2022 by a dedicated assembly of Igbo residents residing in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, UK. Our central mission revolves around nurturing and perpetuating Igbo culture and heritage, extending unwavering support to our valued members, and actively contributing to the advancement of both our Stoke-on-Trent community and Igbo people around the region.
In recent months, we’ve witnessed remarkable growth, and our organization now boasts an estimated membership of 160 individuals. We wholeheartedly commit to curating a diverse spectrum of events and initiatives year-round. These encompass vibrant cultural festivals, enriching educational workshops, and engaging social gatherings, all thoughtfully designed to celebrate our heritage and cultivate a profound sense of community.
At the core of Igbo Union Stoke on Trent’s unwavering dedication is the empowerment of our members within the UK and our steadfast advocacy for global recognition of Igbo culture and heritage. We take immense pride in serving as a pivotal resource for Stoke-on-Trent’s Igbo community and are deeply honored to be affiliated with esteemed bodies such as the Igbo Association Europe and Igbo Unions Worldwide.
In addition to our cultural and community-focused endeavors, we are actively collaborating with the Staffordshire Police on important initiatives. These include reviewing their new body-worn video policy to enhance transparency and public expectation, as well as sharing information on the use of force and stop search prevalence to bring transparency to these crucial matters. We are also working on building a new training product, utilizing both lived experiences and cultural awareness, to film scenarios and provide narratives for force training related to the use of force and stop search.
Looking ahead, our vision is to partner with any group championing causes of the Black community, promoting diversity, and building a community where all of us can peacefully coexist and thrive.
The Igbo Union Stoke-on-Trent stands as the overarching organization uniting Igbo natives, offering them a platform for collaborative endeavors aimed at realizing a shared vision of unity and progress for our cherished members and their families.
Our association is guided by a set of clear and purposeful objectives:
Fostering Togetherness: Our primary aim is to promote a sense of togetherness and brotherhood among our members through meaningful social and cultural interactions.
Protecting Igbo Interests: We are committed to safeguarding the interests of Igbo Indigenes and the broader Igbo community in Stoke-on-Trent, UK. We also work tirelessly to nurture a harmonious relationship between our association and the local community.
Information Hub: We serve as an information hub, providing our members with relevant information related to their interests. Additionally, we facilitate cooperation and support networks among our members.
Positive Development: We actively participate in initiatives aimed at making Nigeria, especially the Southeast region, a thriving center for positive development. Our goal is to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our native land.
Orientation and Education: We offer preparatory and post-orientation guidance and information to prospective Igbo residents who are coming to live in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. This helps them settle into the community more easily.
Promoting Culture: Preserving our rich cultural heritage is essential to us. We promote Igbo language, art, culture, and heritage, ensuring that these traditions continue to thrive.
Social Inclusion: We advocate for social inclusion within our community, working to ensure that no one is left behind. We believe in a community where every member has a place and a voice.
Recreation and Leisure: To enhance the quality of life for our members, we provide facilities for recreation and leisure activities. We believe that a balanced life includes opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
In conclusion, we invite you all to join us in our mission to strengthen our community, preserve our culture, and create a better future for all. Together, we can achieve remarkable things, celebrate our diversity, and contribute to the progress of our beloved Stoke-on-Trent and beyond.
Thank you for your attention.
