The first-ever Cultural Awareness Day (CAD) marked the inspiring beginning of a new community-led project designed to bring people together without barriers. Held in Hartlepool, this landmark event set the foundation for a series of impactful cultural initiatives that celebrate diversity, inclusion, and shared humanity.
Led by the Time Dialogue Society North East Branch, in collaboration with Salaam Community Centre, The Big League, Poolie Time Exchange, Time To Help UK, and Something Positive Solutions, CAD transformed the space into a vibrant cultural hub. Music, art, and hands-on workshops became a universal language—connecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
The programme featured live Anatolian folk music by the Play for Peace Band, alongside interactive macramé, calligraphy, and water marbling workshops, people’s art, live performances, and community voices. As part of Refugee Week, the event proudly hosted Exhibition in Exile, using creativity and storytelling to build empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue.
This first Cultural Awareness Day was more than an event—it was the starting point of a movement. A space where culture removed boundaries, creativity built bridges, and community came together as one.
- Cultural Awareness Day 1 – Learning Through Culture at Tyneview Primary School 28 January 2022 | Event
- Cultural Awareness Day 2 – Where Cultures Meet: The First Cultural Awareness Day in the North East 5 Jul 2022 | Event
- Cultural Awareness Day 3: Celebrating Diversity Together at Wallsend St. Peter’s C of E Primary School 15 February 2023 | Event
- Cultural Awareness Day 4 – Building Understanding Through Culture at Cleveland Police 21 June 2023 | Event
- Cultural Awareness Day 5: A Community Celebration of Culture and Connection at Cleveland Police 24 June 2023 | Event
- Cultural Awareness Day 6: Colours, Cultures & Community – Blyth Celebrates Program 23 August 2025 | Event
- Cultural Awareness Day 7: Where Art and Culture Meet Spirit and Community 24 August 2025 | Event
