Festival of Remembrance 2023
FAIR had a party of 57 attend the Festival of Remembrance in Belfast last night. some members drove there due to restriction in coach 53 seater. They all enjoyed a meal in a Local hotel making this a special evening together. Chairman and wife along with befriending coordinator and Project Manager enjoyed a great view seated in the VIP seating. We were proud to see one of our victims Krystal taking part in the service with a presentation to Lady Brookborough. It was a tremendous evening with fully packed programme of music and dance followed by Service of Remembrance. Excellent and much appreciated event enjoyed by everyone. Thanks and appreciation to the RBL for all their hard work in getting such a great programme together.
Big Breakfast Fundraiser
Big Breakfast Fundraiser
FAIR wish to thank everyone for their support today with their BIG BREAKFAST, for those who attended and all our volunteers for their hard work. A very successful event. All donations go to FAIR Fundraising account.
Thank you to everyone .
Anniversary Dinner
Celebrating 25 Years of Strength and Resilience: FAIR Dinner at Banbridge
Introduction: In a world that often overlooks the plight of victims and survivors, the FAIR Victims Group has stood as a beacon of hope and support for a quarter of a century. This year marks a remarkable milestone – the 25th Anniversary of the FAIR Victims Group. To celebrate this journey of strength, resilience, and justice, the group organised a special dinner at Banbridge. This event was a poignant and empowering gathering, bringing together survivors, advocates, and allies to commemorate the progress made and to renew the commitment to the ongoing fight for justice.
Reflecting on 25 Years: Founded in 1998, FAIR has been unwavering in its dedication to providing support, understanding, and resources to those who have experienced injustice. Over the past 25 years, the group has not only been a lifeline for victims but has also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the challenges survivors face in their pursuit of justice.
The journey has been marked by triumphs and challenges, but through it all, FAIR has remained steadfast in its mission to advocate for fairness, accountability, integrity, and respect. The anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and acknowledge the collective strength that has fueled the group's impact over the years.
A Night of Celebration at Banbridge: The anniversary dinner at Banbridge promises to be a night filled with reflection, celebration, and unity. Set against the backdrop of this picturesque venue, attendees will have the chance to connect with fellow survivors, share stories, and find solace in the shared experience of overcoming adversity.
The program for the evening includes speeches from key figures within the FAIR Victims Group, highlighting the achievements and milestones reached over the past 25 years. Special guests, including advocates and community leaders, will also share their insights on the importance of supporting victims and survivors in their quest for justice.
The dinner at Banbridge is not just a celebration but a recommitment to the principles that have guided the FAIR Victims Group throughout its existence. It is an acknowledgment of the strength of survivors and a call to action for continued advocacy in the face of ongoing challenges.
Looking Forward: As FAIR enters its next chapter, the anniversary dinner serves as a springboard for the future. With the unwavering support of its members, allies, and the broader community, the group aims to continue its mission of creating a more just and compassionate society.
As we celebrate 25 years, let us not only reflect on the past but also look forward with optimism and determination. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with a united front and a commitment to justice, FAIR will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of survivors and in the broader fight for a fair and equitable society.
Conclusion: The 25th Anniversary dinner at Banbridge is more than a commemoration of the past; it is a celebration of the resilience, strength, and unity that define FAIR and its members. As survivors, advocates, and allies come together to mark this significant milestone, they stand not only as a testament to the progress made but as a beacon of hope for the future. May FAIR continue to shine brightly for the next 25 years and beyond, inspiring change and fostering justice for all.
Narrowwater Memorial Service 2023
A dignified service was held today at Narrow Water the site of one of the worst atrocities in the Province. The service was organised by FAIR as they have done for so for many years.
The Frontier Pipes and Drums Veterans Pipe Band provided the music. Service was officiated by Revd Graham Middleton with John Robinson (Lt Col ret.) reading Roll of Honour and Act of Remembrance and Ben Higgins (ex WO11 QOH) reading collect of Queen’s own Highlanders . Piper was Bert Harkness and Bugler John Henry.
Wreaths were laid QOH, Armed Forces Bikers, PSNI, FAIR , Newry RBL, DUP, TUV and UUP.
FAIR spokesperson Molly Carson said
“ It’s very important to the families this day to remember the sacrifice of their husbands, fathers, sons. brothers, uncles and other relatives . Young men on a peace keeping mission callously murdered by cowardly IRA terrorists who never engaged in battle but planted bombs .
Thank you to all those who participated in the service and everyone who attended. I wish to add my personal thanks for a lovely service and all those who attended from The Armed Forces Bikers Club. Thanks also to the PSNI for their security., at the event”
Picture Framing
FAIR’s Picture Framing has been one of the flag- ship projects of the group with a lot of interest and an increasing number of orders. With tuition from a professional Picture-Framer, a full work- shop of tools and materials, and a couple of hours to spare a week, anyone with an interest in learning a new and exciting skill can become involved.
The course is free and at the end of it you will have the opportunity to help FAIR develop it’s pioneering business.
Come and be part of the team.
Highlights of the High Tea
With Afternoon teas and high teas all the fashion now our members and friends were in for a real treat. FAIR organised an al fresco high tea today where everyone enjoyed time together before the holiday break. With many events and activities planned for the summer months it was good to enjoy a more relaxed occasion. Thank you to our catering volunteers Liza, Charlean, Mary, Jesica and Sam. a big thank you to May, Lisa, Mary and Sam for the delicious sweets served. Great time was had by all.
European Memorial Day for Victims of Terrorism 2023
United in Remembrance: FAIR Group Attends European Memorial Day for Victims of Terrorism in Belfast
Introduction: In a poignant and heartfelt gathering, the FAIR Group is set to attend the European Memorial Day for Victims of Terrorism at the historic La Mon Hotel in Belfast. As we come together to remember and honor those who have suffered the profound impacts of terrorism, this event stands as a symbol of solidarity, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of justice. The La Mon Hotel, echoing with the shared stories of survival and loss, becomes a space for remembrance and a testament to the strength of those who have faced the harsh realities of terrorism.
A Gathering of Compassion: The European Memorial Day for Victims of Terrorism is a significant occasion that unites people from all walks of life, transcending borders and cultures. This year, the FAIR Group is proud to stand among those who share a common commitment to acknowledging the pain and hardship experienced by victims of terrorism throughout Europe.
As attendees gather at the La Mon Hotel, there is a shared understanding that the impact of terrorism is profound and far-reaching. The event is not just a memorial but a powerful demonstration of solidarity, a coming together of survivors, families, and advocates to collectively address the challenges faced by those affected.
La Mon Hotel: A Symbolic Venue: The choice of the La Mon Hotel as the venue for this significant event adds a layer of historical significance. The hotel, which itself experienced a tragic bombing in 1978, serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of terrorism. The scars of that event are still visible, making it a poignant location for the FAIR Group and others to pay their respects and reflect on the broader impact of terrorism on individuals and communities.
Honoring the Stories of Resilience: Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to share their stories, experiences, and memories. The FAIR Group, with its commitment to fairness, accountability, integrity, and respect, brings a unique perspective to the event. Members will not only stand in solidarity with victims but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the importance of supporting those affected by acts of terrorism.
Speeches, testimonials, and moments of reflection will weave together a narrative of resilience, emphasizing the strength and courage of survivors. By participating in this collective remembrance, the FAIR Group aims to amplify the voices of those who often go unheard and foster a deeper understanding of the long-lasting effects of terrorism.
A Call to Action: As the day unfolds, it is not just a time for reflection but also a call to action. The FAIR Group, alongside other attendees, will renew their commitment to advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of victims and promote a society free from the specter of terrorism. By standing together, we affirm our shared responsibility to work towards preventing future tragedies and creating a world where no one has to endure the pain caused by acts of terror.
Conclusion: The European Memorial Day for Victims of Terrorism at the La Mon Hotel is not just an event; it is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. As the FAIR Group participates in this solemn gathering, we are reminded that through unity and compassion, we can build a future where the shadows of terrorism are replaced with the light of justice, empathy, and resilience. May this day serve as a catalyst for positive change and a beacon of hope for all those impacted by acts of terrorism across Europe.
UN International Victims of Terrorism Day
International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, 21 August 2022
The fifth International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism was commemorated on 21 August 2022. It took place as the world struggles to transition out of the public health emergency triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and confronted the social transformations it has created or accelerated. At the same time, victims of terrorism continued to experience uncertainty and anxiety as armed conflicts, violent attacks, and terrorist acts around the world continued to make headlines and perhaps exacerbate or trigger their traumas.
Remembrance of and paying tribute to victims of terrorism plays a central role in demonstrating that their status as victims is respected and recognized. The International Day serves to commemorate and uphold the dignity of victims and highlights the importance of global solidarity in ensuring that victims are not forgotten.
The theme was “Memories” and was selected following consultation with victims and victims’ associations. Memories bind us together as if connected by a red thread, a fil rouge: a thread that signifies our common humanity and solidarity with those who have suffered irreparable losses in the most heinous of circumstances.
To mark the fifth commemoration of the International Day, the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) organized a high-level pre-recorded event entitled ‘Surviving Terrorism: The Power of Memories’ to be broadcast on Sunday, 21 August 2022, on UN Web TV. The pre-recorded event was opened by the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, and featured the participation of the co-Chairs of the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism, the Republic of Iraq, and the Kingdom of Spain, testimonies from four victims of terrorism, and closing remarks by Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, Mr. Vladimir Voronkov.
The cornerstone of 2022's virtual observance was the “Memories”Opens a new window campaign, launched by UNOCT’s United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) earlier this year. Through film, photography, and carefully crafted captions, the “Memories” campaign tells the stories of victims of terrorism from across the globe who share their memories, emotions and the meaning that they attach to a personal object.