Laois migrant communities unite to unveil mural celebrating diversity

MEMBERS of migrant communities in Portlaoise and Rathdowney gathered recently for the unveiling of a mural celebrating inclusion and diversity.

The unveiling took place as part of Wear Red Day 2026, an annual effort to help end racial discrimination, on 20 March in the courtyard of Laois Partnership Company (LPC). LPC staff wore red to show their support, and to take a stand against racism.

The mural was a collaboration between people from different countries, including Ukraine, Brazil, Nigeria, Italy, Finland, the Philippines, Latvia, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Italy, who all worked under the tutelage of artist Claire Noons.

Claire explained that the project’s aim was to show that community goes beyond skin colour or nationality. “It’s about people coming together and making their own meaning in life,” she said.

Claire outlined that the mural was inspired by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, a psychological theory that posits essential human needs, such as food and shelter, must be satisfied before people can tend to self-fulfilment.

Supported through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), the initiative encouraged participants to connect with each other. They shared memories from their home countries and highlighted the traditions and characteristics of their cultures.

Attendees of the unveiling were welcomed by SICAP Community Development Officer, Cassia O’Neill, who spearheaded the project. Also present at the unveiling were members of the Local Authority Integration Team from Laois County Council.

Cassia, who is originally from Brazil but has been in Ireland for 12 years, shared her experience of leaving her home country to start anew, using her pair of worn-out Converse as an analogy.

“They walked the streets of Curitiba in Brazil, where I grew up”, she said, adding: “They walked me through university, through friendships, and through dreams about the future.” “And later, they walked the streets of Ireland to job interviews, to bus stops, and to new beginnings”, she continued. “They walked with me as I learned how to build a life in a new country.” When Cassia came to Ireland, she came with excitement, she said. “I came with plans. I came by choice, and I have been welcomed. For that, I am deeply grateful.” Not everyone’s journey begins that way, she noted. “Not everyone leaves home because they want to.” Cassia pointed out that many people are forced to flee their homeland because of war or incredible hardship, leaving behind their family, security, and language.

“Sometimes all they carry with them are the clothes they’re wearing … and the shoes on their feet. So, when we say, ‘put yourself in someone else’s shoes,’ it’s not just a phrase. It’s a challenge,” she said.

The mural will now become a permanent part of Laois Partnership Company.