A new generation of peace-builders are being inspired by the late John Hume’s principles of “peace, tolerance and reconciliation”, Hume Foundation secretary Tim Attwood has said.
Mr Attwood was speaking after an event in Derry’s Guildhall marking the 25th anniversary of the presentation of the 1998 Nobel Peace Prize to Mr Hume and former Ulster Unionist leader, the late Lord David Trimble.
Organised by the John and Pat Hume Foundation, the commemoration was addressed by former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern (who spoke virtually) and Lady Daphne Trimble, Lord Trimble’s widow.
Other speakers included former SDLP Stormont Agriculture Minister Bríd Rodgers and Derry writer Séamus O’Reilly as well as Women’s Coalition co-founder, Monica McWilliams and human rights’ campaigners from around the world.
The commemoration was addressed by charities, St Vincent De Paul and the Salvation Army about poverty, homelessness and social justice. Following the 1998 prize-giving, Mr Hume donated his Nobel prize money to the two groups.
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Derry singer Roe also performed at the event while BBC foreign correspondent Fergal Keane produced a special video for the commemoration.
Mr Attwood said it was a source of hope that so many young people were among the several hundred people who attended the Guildhall event on Monday.
“This has been an historic day. We spoke to young people from across the north west who reflected on their pathways for peace and we can take hope that there is a new generation committed to John Hume’s principles of peace, tolerance and reconciliation,” Mr Attwood said.
