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Description
This project seeks to narrow the cultural divide between African migrants and local communities in Malta by showcasing cultural traditional food and dance of the different African diaspora groups in Malta. The aim of these activities is to foster dialogue between the local community and African migrants and guide members of the local community to see beyond the stereotypes that tend to be created by single stories.
The activities organised under this project include two virtual cultural festivals that celebrate African cultural diversity and five structured intergenerational dialogues that use the preparation of different traditional dishes as a basis for discussion on topics such as hate speech, gender issues, employment and human trafficking. The activities will be held virtually to abide by the restrictions imposed on social gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is hoped that by creating a non-threatening and non-didactic environment – loosely defined by creativity, equality and respect of difference – cultural integration can be negotiated and developed, leading to further inclusion of migrant communities in society.
This will benefit the migrants themselves who currently feel misrepresented and misunderstood by the local community and the local people who will gain an insight into the beliefs and culturally influenced actions of the migrants, hopefully leading to greater understanding and a higher rate of social inclusion in the long-term.
Summary of project results
The aim of the project was to engage citizens with human stories of forced migration as a way of countering misinformation and hate speech by creating safe spaces for meaningful encounters and dialogue.
The project leaders organised a virtual cultural concert featuring bands and music from African bands that was viewed by thousands of people worldwide, two cultural festivals and five intergenerational dialogues focused on hate speech, gender issues, employment and human trafficking.
This project helped foster critical thinking and increase media literacy by allowing members of the general public to identify propoganda and challenge negative stereotypes. The project tailored specific approaches for each community according to their particular circumstances and delivered discussions which were relevant, respectful, thought provoking and conducive to nurturing social inclusion and civic participation. Migrant speakers were also empowered to share their stories and build networks within their own communities.