One Donegal Social Inclusion Week 2025 launched in Letterkenny

The launch of One Donegal Social Inclusion Week 2025 took place at An Grianán Theatre, marking the beginning of a week-long celebration of diversity, community collaboration, and inclusion across Donegal.

One Donegal Social Inclusion Week is now a much-anticipated event on the county’s calendar. It serves as an engaging, educational, and empowering platform for community and voluntary groups, services, educators, and individuals from all corners of Donegal to showcase the vital work they do in promoting inclusion and supporting diverse communities.

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Speaking at the launch, Deputy Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, Liam Ward, said: “Social Inclusion Week gives us the opportunity to promote and highlight the positive work that the public and community sectors are involved in to reduce discrimination, poverty, and social exclusion. It’s also a time to reflect on the challenges faced by vulnerable members of our community, especially during these uncertain times.”

The launch was followed by a vibrant Intercultural Cabaret, the first in a series being presented by Donegal County Council’s Arts Service. These cabarets, supported by the Creative Ireland Programme, celebrate the rich artistic diversity that exists both in Donegal and nationally. The performances featured dance from India, spoken word from the African continent, traditional Irish storytelling, and a powerful headline performance from Dagogo Hart.

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Niamh Kennedy, who officially launched the week’s programme, shared: “The One Donegal Social Inclusion Week programme offers a fantastic range of events for people of all abilities and ages. It also highlights the significant and valuable level of work that is ongoing at a local level here in Donegal. Social inclusion is not just something we talk about – it’s something we live and build together.”

This year’s programme runs to Saturday, April 5, featuring a wide range of events including cultural celebrations, first aid training, exhibitions, and wellness initiatives.

A particular highlight of the programme is the series of Wellness Cafés that operate throughout Donegal on a weekly basis. These cafés provide a welcoming, informal space for people to drop in, have a chat, and connect with others in a supportive environment—reflecting the heart of what Social Inclusion Week is all about.

With input from organisations county-wide and coordination by the Social Inclusion Unit within Donegal County Council, the week stands as a proud reflection of what is possible when communities come together to ensure that everyone feels they belong.