Mišri šeima, Mixed Family in English, is coordinated by a group of volunteers to support Lithuanian nationals who have formed families or are in a close relationship with migrants.
The project introduces couples from different national, cultural, ethnic, religious or racial backgrounds to Lithuanian society, projecting a positive image of togetherness. In so doing, it promotes tolerance and educates Lithuanians about different nations, cultures, races, religions and languages in a multicultural society.
Project Goal
Mišri Šeima was created as a response to the many difficulties Lithuanians face during a relationship with a person from a different racial, religious, cultural and/or national background: mixed families in Lithuania often experience prejudice and discrimination from not only the public, but also institutions.
Accordingly, the project aims to carry out the following:
- Provide necessary information about visas and living/working permits for spouses of Lithuanian nationals;
- Actively involve culturally, racially, religiously and/or nationally mixed families in promoting tolerance and equality in Lithuanian society;
- Promote greater understanding of bilingualism and developing and maintaining one's own cultural identity;
- Establish a strong community of mixed families where they can get support, advice and deal together with difficult situations.
How it works
The project runs a very active website, on which it publishes:
- articles that promote anti-discrimination, tolerance and inclusion of individuals and families of different race, ethnicity, religion and nationality;
- information about raising bilingual children;
- guidance on obtaining visas and permits;
- video projects promoting unity and solidarity;
- a blog for individuals to contribute relevant personal stories and experiences.
In addition, Mišri Šeima monitors Lithuanian media, governmental institutions and officials for any discriminatory actions or statements and responds accordingly.
Results
Since its beginning in 2014, the project has achieved the following results:
- 146 articles have been published online;
- 10 articles have been published on partners' websites or national media outlets;
- 4 videos promoting tolerance and diversity have been created and published on YouTube. The channel has so far received over 12 000 views.
Evaluation
The project was nominated in the 'Dialogue between Nations' category of the National Equality and Diversity Awards, 2015.
Who benefits
Migrants and their Lithuanian spouses, local communities and migrant organisations. In addition, the society at large.
Funding and resources
The project is coordinated solely by volunteers and has not received any funding.
About this good practice
- Project dates
- Geographic area
- Lithuania
- City
- National level
- Organisation
- „Atviros visuomenės centras“ (Open Society Centre)
- Contact person
- Asta Tamašiūnaitė; Akvilė Lukošė
- Position
- Project Coordinators
Details
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