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Northern Ireland families are grappling with a fundamental question: “When do we stop being immigrants?” This poignant query resonates deeply with those who have settled in Northern Ireland to forge a new life, especially for those who have been there for years or even decades. The question was directed at Northern Ireland politicians following riots that erupted in various towns in Northern Ireland during the summer of 2024 by Muhammad Atif, a business owner and trustee of the Belfast Multi-Cultural Association. Despite incidents of disorder, Atif expressed that there has been no progress for ethnic minorities over the past year.
Atif emphasized the stagnation in addressing the safety concerns of minority groups, stating that many people do not feel secure. The persistent labeling of individuals as immigrants, even if they are second-generation born in Northern Ireland, is regarded as racism by Atif. The issue prompts introspection on when one transcends the classification of an immigrant. In Northern Ireland, 3.4% of the population, totaling 65,600 individuals, belong to a minority ethnic group. Disturbingly, recent data indicates a surge in race hate crimes in Northern Ireland, with 1,188 reported between April 2024 and March 2025.
The unsettling scenes of violence witnessed over the past year were disconcerting for residents like Sree Kadalayil, who expressed uneasiness and apprehension. Having migrated to the UK over two decades ago for education, Sree established his career in Northern Ireland in 2006. Despite the passage of time, he and his wife, Jude Pollock, have encountered instances of racism and hate crimes. The couple shared their experiences of discriminatory political flyers and the ongoing struggle against discriminatory narratives surrounding immigration. Jude highlighted the importance of ensuring their son is equipped to navigate these challenges effectively without succumbing to a victim mentality.
Domingas Gusmao, another resident raising a family in Northern Ireland, relocated from East Timor 14 years ago. Concerned about the potential escalation of discord to County Tyrone, where her family resides, Domingas advocates for kindness and urges individuals to be considerate towards others. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged the initial struggle of adapting to a new language and culture but emphasized the warmth and inclusivity of the community that made her feel at home. Despite occasional moments of feeling like an immigrant, Domingas cherishes the sense of belonging her family has cultivated in Northern Ireland
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