Canberrans to celebrate Harmony Day


Released 25/07/2017

Today Canberra proudly celebrates its standing as one of the most successful culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia, and I encourage Canberrans of all backgrounds to get involved.

We celebrate Harmony Day on 21 March each year to coincide with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It is one of the many ways our community says no to racial discrimination.

This year’s Harmony Day theme, “Everybody Belongs”, reflects our community’s vibrant and inclusive spirit.

The ACT Government’s ACT Multicultural Framework 2015-2020 was developed through extensive community consultation and focuses broadly on supporting multicultural communities and promoting a harmonious community through culturally diverse programs and activities.

The ACT became a Refugee Welcome Zone in 2015, the first jurisdiction of all the states and territories to do so.

We have made it possible for refugees on temporary or bridging visas to access training in areas of skills shortages. This follows the inclusion of the ACT in the Save Haven Enterprise Visa Scheme which also opened up training and work opportunities to asylum seekers.

More than 280,000 people celebrated Canberra’s cultural diversity over three days at the National Multicultural Festival in February. From humble beginnings, the National Multicultural Festival now attracts visitors from around the country.

Work is now underway to establish the Multicultural Advisory Council. The council will inform and assist the ACT Government to further our work with the multicultural community.  Culturally and linguistically diverse people are encouraged to apply via the Community Services Directorate website. Applications close 28 March 2017.

Canberrans are encouraged to wear orange today – the colour of Harmony Day and one that traditionally symbolises social communication and meaningful conversation, freedom of ideas and encouragement of mutual respect.

- Statement ends -

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases


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