Most of INNATE's work is at the level of facilitating
information exchange and networking. The forces for peaceful
social change are usually fragmented and often isolated, so
the key part of INNATE's work is to inform people about what
others are doing, and useful resources, to allow people to
make the necessary contacts and alliances. 'Nonviolent News'
was published monthly during the year except for a summer
and Christmas break as usual.
In addition, support is given to individuals
and groups looking for specific information or resources within
our field of competence and commitment. Sometimes this information
and support is very specific and there is nowhere else in
Ireland that it can be obtained. We also try to support, publicise
or run nonviolence and related trainings as appropriate.
INNATE organised a successful Belfast seminar
in March 1999 on 'Peace Movement Over The Hill - Setting New
Horizons', looking at changing realities in Northern Ireland.
INNATE was one of a number of organisations co-operating with
INCORE to run seminars in different parts of the North on
stewarding, mediation and monitoring. INNATE will be co-operating
with a number of peace and justice groups in the Dublin area
to co-host the War Resisters International worldwide triennial
conference in summer 2002.
The level of activity is limited by lack of
people involved. As co-ordinator for INNATE I work voluntary
and part-time - there are no staff, no premises. Even to organise
a day seminar adequately requires a number of people to be
involved. If you would like to discuss possible involvement
- which you define - please get in touch. The easiest way
for Belfast-accessible people to be involved is to come to
networking meetings. As co-ordinator I have been talking to
some people about future directions for INNATE, as part of
an ongoing review; suggestions and comments are welcome from
anyone.
The times are changing rapidly. The Republic
is now a member of NATO's Partnership for Peace (sic) and
economic prosperity has brought new challenges - not least
the need for anti-racist work. The impasse in Northern Ireland
with the collapse of the new regime indicates the need for
the long haul hasn't gone away, you know, and the many fundamentals
which have still to be addressed. INNATE hopes to play its
part in working for nonviolent social and political change,
at home and abroad.
Thank you to those who have already sent subscriptions
for 2000. Being without buildings or staff, INNATE is not
a high cost organisation but we still have to tick over, and
pay for mailings and events, phone and stationery. If you
feel there is any way I can assist you in your work, or put
you in touch with others who may be more appropriate, please
make contact. And we always welcome information for possible
inclusion in 'Nonviolent News' which can be sent by post,
fax or E-mail.
Rob Fairmichael, Coordinator, INNATE,
February 2000