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The Guardian view on strengthening social cohesion: we can learn from the working-class past | Editorial

The reopening of one of the most remarkable buildings of the 20th century is a reminder of what a sense of common purpose can achieveThe traditional showpiece of any summer in County Durham is the annual miners’ gala, which last Saturday once again connected the region to its proud industrial past. This July, however, locals have another uplifting occasion to celebrate. More than a century after it first opened in Durham in 1915, one of Europe’s most extraordinary monuments to working-class pride, self-confidence and optimism has been relaunched as a cultural centre and community hub.Boasting a white marble staircase, a domed roof and a spectacular debating chamber (the “pitman’s parliament”), the Durham Miners’ Hall was originally built through the subscriptions of colliers working in what was one of the largest coalfields in Europe. Its refurbishment has been principally financed through the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and an official reopening is planned for the autumn. But events have already started to take place, including a public performance of mining songs by a primary school choir.Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? If you would like to submit a response of up to 300 words by email to be considered for publication in our letters section, please click here. Continue reading...

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