Whatever You Say, Say Something

The Whatever You Say, Say Something project ran between October 2008 and December 2011. It offered opportunities for conversations considering a wide range of issues around dealing with the past. HTR’s trained facilitators worked with groups and organisations to identify their interests for these conversations.

Why?

Saying something about the past can help to create a more peaceful future, while saying nothing can help to maintain divisions.

What is dealing with the past?

Dealing with the past is about addressing ‘what occurred; in relation to the conflict in and about Northern Ireland.

The Challenge

Individuals and community have survived the conflict in a context of ‘whatever you say say nothing’. The challenge is to find ways to discuss both the political and personal issues that are safe for individuals and communities.

The Opportunity

If embraced in an appropriate manner, dealing with the past can present a real opportunity for individuals and communities to deal with – and overcome – the divisions of the past and be better prepared for shaping a more peaceful future.

Evaluation

In March 2012, Healing Through Remembering published its evaluation of Whatever You Say, Say Something. Click on the image to the right to access the evaluation report, and click here to view other HTR evaluations.

Conversation Guide

As a result of an outreach programme, Healing Through Remembering has developed a guide to support conversations on dealing with the past and remembering. It is aimed at enabling greater participation in this important civic society discussion.

Conferences

‘Whatever You Say, Say Something’ – a Dealing with the Past Conference

24 June 2008, Grand Opera House

The launch of the Conversation Guide was accompanied by a keynote address from Graeme Simpson, Director of Thematic Programmes at the International Centre for Transitional Justice, and a panel discussion chaired by William Crawley.