Nominations call for individuals and groups promoting a diverse IrelandIRELAND’S premier multicultural awards initiative has launched its call for entries with a clear message - this one is for everybody.
The 2007 Metro Eireann Media and Multicultural Awards (MAMA), sponsored by the Iris O’Brien Foundation in association with the National Action Plan Against Racism, will honour Irish and non-Irish individuals, groups, businesses and State bodies that are promoting respect for cultural diversity and anti-racism on the island of Ireland.
In total, there are 10 awards – with eight presented across two categories: Multicultural (individual, NGO and public/private institution sub-categories), and Media (print, broadcast, visual, student and Northern Ireland sub-categories). Two other awards – the National Action Plan Against Racism Award and the Judges’ Special Award – will be chosen directly by members of the judging panel and public nominations are not sought.
Closing date for receipt of entries is Monday, October 1st, with the awards ceremony set to take place in November. Submitted entries must relate to the time period 1 January 2007 to 31 August 2007 (entry forms and further information available at www.mama awards.com).
Speaking last Friday after the launch of the call for entries, MAMA founder and Metro Éireann editor Chinedu Onyejelem commented: “This year, for the first time, we have written to all CEOs in Ireland seeking their nominations, as part of an attempt to reach out to all sections of society. Winners will also have the opportunity to meet with policy-makers in the area of integration, in order to bring MAMA to another level.”
Chairperson of the National Action Plan Against Racism Lucy Gaffney, also referred to MAMA’s widening net: “It’s been five years in operation but what this year is focused on is actually getting more mainstream, and getting more focused on the wider community, not only the new ethnic communities coming in to Ireland,” she said.
Businessman Denis O’Brien, founder of the Iris O’Brien Foundation which is sponsoring the awards, said the MAMA is fast becoming one of Ireland’s most appealing events: “I attended the MAMA awards last year in Liberty Hall and I just thought it was a fantastic night. I think the recognition the awards give to people across the whole country is very, very valuable because of the work that people do, and for that reason I think it’s probably the most interesting awards in the whole social side in Ireland at themoment.”
Minister for Integration Policy, Conor Lenihan, TD said: “I congratulate Metro Éireann on its ongoing initiative in organising the MAMA awards which have become a significant event in the intercultural calendar. I have no doubt that as always a large number of high quality entries will be received for consideration and I encourage all sectors to participate.”
MAMA is also supported by the Office of the Minister for Integration Policy, The Irish Times and advertising and design agency, Language.
