Date: 22 Nov 2023
Ulster-Scots Language Week/Ulster-Scotch Leid Week was celebrated in City Hall this week through a special event featuring Ulster-Scots music, dance, poetry and storytelling.
The event was organised by community development organisation, Small Steps, with support from the Ulster-Scots Agency and in partnership with Council.
Among those taking part in the celebration were the Alastair Scott Ceilidh Band, Ulster-Scots storytelling and poetry recital from Steve Lalley as well as Scottish Country dancing.
Speaking at the event, Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “It’s a privilege to celebrate Ulster-Scotch Leid Week at City Hall today in partnership with Small Steps.
“Belfast has a strong historical connection to the Scots heritage and it is important that as a council we celebrate the language, culture and heritage of Ulster-Scots.
“We are committed to promoting and celebrating diversity and our language strategy recognises in a real and meaningful way the cultural significance of language to communities and the importance of ensuring languages are used and nurtured for present and future generations. We look forward to supporting many more Ulster-Scots initiatives.”
Karen Stewart, Director of Corporate Services at the Ulster-Scots Agency, said: "The Ulster-Scots Agency is proud to partner once again with Belfast City Council for Ulster-Scots Language Week. Working together to showcase the rich tradition of Ulster-Scots throughout the Council area and now in its fifth year, Ulster-Scots Language Week is going from strength to strength.”