The Show Of Strength Must Go On

Newtown Together at Sunday’s screening SUN22SEPT24

atest press release from North Wicklow Against Genocide and Newtown Together, issued on Tuesday, September 24th 2024…

On Sunday 22 September, North Wicklow Against Genocide and Newtown Together successfully hosted a screening of the documentary Refuge (2021) to an audience of 40 people at CrossFit Solas in Greystones after five other venues backed out.

The screening was followed by a discussion joined remotely by Chris and Melissa Buckley, two of the main documentary protagonists.

The award-winning documentary follows Chris Buckley, a leader in the Ku Klux Klan who finds healing from the people he once hated. He becomes friends with Muslim heart doctor Dr Heval Kelli and his town of refugees, after Chris’ wife Melissa finds him dedicated support for people involved in hate groups.

The screening was followed by an open and honest conversation between the audience and Chris and Melissa, who joined via video call. Chris shared his experience of leaving hurt behind and facing backlash from relatives following his speaking out about white nationalism and against racism. Melissa shared her experience of dealing with a loved one getting involved in a hate group.

Kellie McConnell from North Wicklow against Genocide said: “We were pleased to see an outpouring of support on social media and in person last week following the initial venue cancellations.

“We’re delighted how smoothly the film screening went on Sunday, which could easily have been held in any of the five venues.

“This shows that our community has an appetite for opportunities to show their solidarity and for spaces where they can have these sometimes difficult conversations.

“Over the past few months, people in many of the venues have received emails and verbal abuse from people who wanted to prevent this kind of event from happening. We would like to make it clear that bullying is not acceptable. Fear should not be used as a tool to shut down conversations. The community centres and boards should be supported to make principled decisions when faced with these difficult encounters.

“We would also like to sincerely thank everyone involved – it was a real collaboration of teamwork and we look forward to continuing our community events and actions. We encourage people to watch Refuge (2021) if they haven’t already.”

Member of Newtown Together JB Kenny said: “It is such a shame that we couldn’t show a documentary about healing and hope in our town. Integration has been slow but a few businesses have welcomed us, most are still reluctant for fear of retaliation. We would love to hold a solidarity dinner for asylum seekers and refugees for the community to get to know their new neighbours.

“The film screening was a lost opportunity for the area this time but we hope that we can address any concerns and work together for future occasions. We are calling on our community leaders and councillors to take the initiative to bring everyone together, dispel myths and allay fears. TD Jennifer Whitmore has been so supportive and we appreciate her solidarity and attendance.

“Thanks again to Crossfit Solas for stepping up, Kitchen28 for the chairs, and the team for never giving up – and providing popcorn and refreshments.

“It is amazing what we can achieve when we all work together.”

You can find out more about North Wicklow Against Genocide on Facebook here, Instagram here or TikTok here, or get in touch on email here, and Newtown Together on Instagram here and Facebook here, or by email here. You can stream Refuge here.