The Limerick Migrant Integration Forum’s celebration of the UN International Day of Hope serves as a powerful testament to the strength of unity and inclusion.
Dr. Muhammad Mataro Hingorjo | Ireland
On Monday, 13 July 2026, I had the pleasure of attending a special event organized by the Limerick Migrant Integration Forum in collaboration with PPN Limerick to celebrate the UN International Day of Hope. Held under the theme “Bridging Communities,” the evening was a powerful reminder of the values that make Ireland such a welcoming and inclusive country. It brought together people from many cultural backgrounds, community organizations, public representatives, and local leaders in an atmosphere of hope, positivity, and shared commitment.
A highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Deputy Cathal Crowe TD (Fianna Fáil), Cathaoirleach of the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Youth. We were also delighted to welcome Limerick councillors, including Azad Talukdar, the first Muslim and South Asian Limerick City councillor, whose active role in local politics reflects the inclusive spirit of Irish society. Azad Talukdar, who is of Bangladeshi origin, has been very active in public and social services & politics. We were joined by other respected councillors, representatives from LAIT – Limerick City and County Council, John Lennon, CEO of Doras, Jennifer Moroney, CEO of Limerick City Partnership, George Nixon from the Munster Indian Cultural Association, members of An Garda Síochána, and representatives from many cultural and community organizations across Limerick. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Vadi Vel and Khurram Kashmiri for organizing such an important and timely event. Their efforts created a welcoming space where people from different backgrounds could meet, learn from one another, and strengthen friendships.
As someone who has made Ireland my home, I left the event with renewed optimism. One message stood out clearly: the small minority who spread hatred, racism, prejudice, and division—whether on social media or in public demonstrations—do not represent the true Ireland. Ireland has endured more than 800 years of colonization, yet its identity, language, culture, and spirit were never erased. That history shows that Ireland is strong enough to preserve its identity while welcoming others. Diversity does not weaken the country; it adds to its strength. The real Ireland is the one I experienced that evening: a country where people from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds come together with mutual respect and understanding. Ireland has a proud history of welcoming people from around the world while confidently preserving its own rich identity, traditions, and values.
I also spoke about the Indus Valley civilization, which is shared across borders in South Asia. This great civilization does not belong to one nationality alone. It is part of the shared heritage of Sindhis, Pakistanis, and people with Dravidian roots, including many communities in South India, all of whom have deep historical ties to the Indus River, Sindh, and the wider civilization that grew from that region. As people of the Indus Valley heritage, we respect and honor the Shannon River and the island of Ireland, along with its own rich civilization, history, and identity. That mutual respect is what builds real friendship between communities.
The event also highlighted the excellent work being carried out by organizations that support integration and encourage migrants to become active, positive contributors to Irish society. It was inspiring to meet representatives from so many communities working together to make Ireland stronger, more united, and more prosperous. The participation of An Garda Síochána was especially encouraging for migrants, sending a strong message of reassurance, trust, and community partnership. For many migrants, seeing the Gardaí actively engaged in such events helps build confidence and a sense of belonging in Irish society.
For migrants, the future is closely linked with the future of Ireland. Many have built their lives here, and their children are growing up as part of Irish society. Their success, stability, and prosperity will contribute directly to the success and prosperity of Ireland itself. Integration is not only about helping newcomers; it is about building a stronger future for the whole country. False information, prejudice, and fear can create unnecessary divisions, but education, open dialogue, and genuine human connections can challenge them. When people meet, listen, and understand one another, false narratives begin to disappear.
The Limerick Migrant Integration Forum’s celebration of the UN International Day of Hope was more than a community gathering—it was a powerful statement that hope, unity, and cooperation are stronger than fear and division. I hope to see many more events like this across Ireland. By continuing to build bridges between communities, we can create a society where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute. That is the true spirit of hope, and it is the path towards a brighter future for all.
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Dr. Muhammad Mataro Hingorjo is a Family Physician originally from village Dhandhi Hingorja, Tharpakar, Sindh, currently residing in Limerick Ireland.
