Hate-related incidents increased by a third in 2022.

Just days after hundreds of Cork people gathered at the ninth annual Cork Says No to Racism rally on the Grand Parade, the Immigrant Council of Ireland (ICI) is calling on schools, businesses and community groups in Cork to join another important anti-racism initiative.

Wear Red Day takes place on Friday, March 31st and all you have to do to show your support is wear red and make a donation to the charity.

All the funds raised through Wear Red Day will be used by the Immigrant Council to continue their work on tackling racism in Ireland.

“With racist incidents on the rise, it is vital that we provide people with the tools and knowledge they need to properly deal with racism,” said Valeria Aquino, Integration Manager at the Immigrant Council.

Racism can take many forms, from verbal abuse to physical assaults. It can be in the form of graffiti or include attacks on property as well as people, it can be threatening and abusive or disguised as a joke or ‘a bit of craic’.

“Wear Red Day is a great opportunity for schools and workplaces to start the conversation on racism and discrimination. As well as wearing red, we’re also encouraging people to run activities throughout the day – everything from five-aside competitions, to bake sales – all to help boost donations.” Aquino added.

“We hope the people of Cork get behind this initiative and show their support on Friday!”

The Immigrant Council is encouraging participants to share their Wear Red Day activities on social media using the hashtag #WRD23.