Diverse Cultural Celebration as a tool for Peaceful Cohesion in our Community

I was thankful to the organisers of the Manchester One Culture event which took place on 28th September, 2019 at the Audacious Church Hall. Thank you for the kind invitation to address them all at this cultural event.
This event by One Manchester Culture focussed on identity. There was a myriad of presentations and performances by different actors, dancers, singers and performers representing different countries within the world who are here in Manchester.
Identity is a fundamental for existence. Identity is what makes me who I am and who you are. Cultural identity is unique, however, cultural intelligence is what can set us apart or can bind us. Being free to express ones cultural identity including the food, music, clothing, languages and behaviors associated makes one proud of who and what they are.  More importantly this free expression of ones cultural identity gives those around an understanding of what we, I or you are about. This type of cultural intelligence stems from what I call Social Intelligence.
In order to obtain a deeper understanding of "Social Intelligence" which lead to cultural intelligence, one has to dare to step outside of their comfort zone.
Approach someone today who is different from you, and ask them about their dress, language, ethnicity or food. It is only with communication and right reasoning do we get right knowledge, right wisdom and right 'over' standing, which is what I call 'Social Intelligence'. We are no longer under the barrier of knowledge but 'over' it.  If we are to appreciate difference we need to be curious to ask questions and communicate.
To have social and cultural intelligence is a beautiful thing. If you would like a workshop on " Creating Social Intelligence" in an Urban Environment', then do get in touch - [email protected]
So once again I say thank you to the organizers for bringing this opportunity to us to enjoy each other's culture.
I hope you enjoy this event and take on the social and cultural intelligence challenge - approach and converse with someone different from yourself. Dr Erinma Bell MBE DL