Introduction to the "Troubles"

Oliver Cromwell Mural

Our first session with youth workers from opposite sides of the conflict: one a former Republican & one a former Loyalist.
View from The Farset

Dr. Michael Morris and Daniel Marzec

A Break for a cup of tea from our meeting.

During our meeting we discussed how communities on both sides of the conflict have formed different models that deal with peace and reconciliation. This is one of the first times that both sides of the troubles have come together to openly discuss how they have gone about creating a lasting peace in Northern Ireland.


Whenever we have a meeting with our Irish hosts we present to them gifts that are native to New Mexico. Our gifts contain contain items native to America, and more specifically to New Mexico like; ceder, tobacco, jewelery containing turqoise stones, and items from the University of New Mexico and the Service Corps.


Dan and Christina Romero enjoying the Irish sun.

Derick, our wonderful chauffeur, host, & teacher.

The walls affect the "Wee" ones too!

Stopping for lunch at the side of a youth centre for kids ages 2-4 years.

In Belfast we are looking for ways that provide more opportunity to the youth of the city. Two of our site visits focus on training the youth in various trade types (picture above) so that they may turn away from violence and focus more on being a constructive part of society.

Albino and Frances traveling in the mini bus.

How do we build a restorative society?
It has to be a "bottom up" approach.
Restore trust.
Build trust so the people can make decisions & take responsibility for themselves.