Leith Open Space Group formed in the aftermath of the London bombings of July 2005. We wanted to try to do something to strengthen the links between the many different communities living side by side in our area. How many of us know our neighbours? What exactly is a multicultural community? What hopes and fears do we have in common? What can we learn from one another?
The first multicultural discussion event in November 2005 set out to find some answers by inviting ethnic minority community groups in Leith to join together in Open Space. The invitation asked Can We Listen to Each Other? The answer was an overwhelmingly positive, ‘yes’. Click here to read the pdf report of the first event.
The second event in May 2006 explored How Can we Widen Opportunities? The day ended with unanimous agreement that it was time for ethnic minority communities to work together to create new opportunities in politics, employment and voluntary work. Click here to read the report of the second event.
Our third event in March 2009 invited women from many different groups to discuss Who Cares for the Carers? The theme of the day’s discussion came under the broad umbrella of caring: for the young, the old, the fragile or unwell, the environment; in other words the needs of all ages and stages of life. Click here to read what happened on the day – we are now preparing a report for Scottish Government and all other relevant agencies.
Meanwhile this website offers an open space to introduce and promote the work of local people who are helping to make Leith a vibrant, dynamic and welcoming community. Check the home page for latest news.
Leith Open Space Group grew out of Leith Walk Central Branch of the Labour Party and we are grateful for their continuing support through fundraising events. But our multicultural (maybe intercultural is a better word?) Open Space events and activities are completely non-party-political. The agenda belongs to you.