What does it mean to feel like you have no voice? To feel like you count for nothing, to feel like you are only defined by your poverty or socioeconomic status. Being hindered by discrimination, stigma and often shame can make participation in the community and society at large extremely difficult.
Yet in the anti-poverty sector we speak about participation as a fundamental norm. Sometimes without recognition of how far some people are left behind. There is a paradigm shift needed in our political structures before real meaningful participation can happen.
This annual report aims to shine a light on the brave efforts made by many people struggling with poverty and social exclusion to express themselves publicly and to face the barriers and inequalities head on.
We are proud to present our ways of building relationships and partnerships across our diverse projects and actions.
-Dann Kenningham National Coordination ATD Ireland
