Photo © Rose Butler

How do we work in ‘flagged’ communities?

Date and Time: Friday 22nd May 2026, 10.30 am to 4 pm

Venue: Chapel FM Arts Centre, 1081 York Road, Leeds, LS14 6JB

What are the realities and opportunities for those working in some of the divided communities around Yorkshire and beyond, the communities that, in large part, are now targeted by those putting up Union Jack and St George flags?

An opportunity for artists and activists from different places to come together to talk about the realities of the work, and how they might go forward.

Why Attend?

• Refresh & Revitalise: Inspire and energise yourself while connecting with others.
• Explore Key Issues: Engage in creative discussions on power-sharing, inclusivity, reaffirming values, and maintaining integrity.
• Share & Develop: Exchange practices and tactics for togetherness and progress. Our goal is for everyone to leave with renewed energy and belief in the essential community work we do every day.

There will be plenty of opportunities to share experiences and we will also be discussing some of the thoughts and proposals of John Paul Lederach in his recent publication

The Pocket Guide for Facing Down a Civil War: Surprising ideas from everyday people who shifted the cycles of violence

The ‘Pocket Guide’ invites us to consider how we might respond to dynamics of toxic polarisation and the pull of more violent approaches to politics. Drawing on the experiences of people who have lived in violent contexts and on his decades-long experience of supporting peace processes, Lederach opens up space for reflection on how to ’embody the basic idea that politics without violence where we live is possible’.

The Pocket Guide is freely available online here.

---

Tough Places is part of a series of events coordinated by UNION: The Northern School for Creativity and Activism in partnership with a range of other organisations. The gatherings seek to recognise that we are living in challenging times, marked by divisions, polarisation, anger, and violence. And  finding creative responses is more vital than ever.
Tough Places is presented in partnership with Chapel FM Arts Centre in Seacroft

Together, let’s shape the future with a shared sense of energy and purpose.

The situation is hopeless. We must take the next step
Pablo Casals (cellist, conductor, composer and lifelong opponent of fascism)