ACSONI [ African and Caribbean Support Organisation Northern Ireland ]

General information

ACSONI [ African and Caribbean Support Organisation Northern Ireland] was established in 2003 for local and regional members of the African and Caribbean Diaspora and associated communities in Northern Ireland. ACSONI provides oppurtunities for people within the community to be part of developments in Northern Ireland and benefit as part of a cosmopolitan society.
ACSONI is at the front line in terms of supporting people and ensuring access to services through advocacy and signposting. We are also proactive on matters such as supporting victims of racism or xenophobic crimes, promoting cultural diversity, awareness raising and supporting people from an African and Caribbean backgrounds to play a full and active role in cultural and civil life.
The African and Caribbean community is one of the largest Minority Ethnic Communities in Northern Ireland. The Black and Minority Ethnic and Migrant Worker Mapping Update January 2013 stated that 4616 people of African descent reside in Northern Ireland. There are currently approximately 10,630 people of African-mixed heritage in NI representing over 35 African nations and the Caribbean.
ACSONI has a strong ethos of grassroots community participation in all aspects of its planning. It was through this close community and stakeholder’s involvement that our new 5 year strategy (2013 -2018) was developed and a launch was hosted by OFMdFM’s Junior Ministers Jonathan Bell MLA & Jennifer McCann MLA on 14 March 2013 at Stormont Parliament Buildings.