Australia is celebrating Harmony Week this week to recognise diversity, inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background.
To mark the occasion, a number of politicians have issued special messages.
Message by the Federal Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles MP:
Every year in March, Australians come together to mark Harmony Week, culminating in the observance of the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on the 21st of March. Australia is one of the world’s most successful multicultural nations. We are home to the world’s oldest continuous cultures as well as migrants from nearly 200 countries.
This week, schools, workplaces and community groups will reflect on this diversity by participating in events across the country and nearly 7000 people from more than 120 countries will become new citizens.
Multiculturalism is integral to our national identity- but we cannot take it for granted. This International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination marks 75 years since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and focuses on the urgent need to combat racism and racial discrimination.
The Albanese Government has invested $7.5m to the Australian Human Rights Commission in order to develop a national anti-racism strategy to tackle racism and promote racial equality in Australia. No matter where you were born, what language you speak, or the faith you practice, Australia should be a country where you can aspire and succeed without restriction.
Message from the NSW Multicultural Minister, Mark Coure MP:
“Today marks the start of Harmony Week, which is an opportunity to celebrate, reflect on and appreciate our multicultural state. As the gateway to our great country for many migrants, NSW serves as a beacon to the world as a destination where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Here in NSW, everyone is welcome to celebrate their cultural identity, speak their language, and be free to practice their faith. Our diversity has paved the way for us to prosper in ways that other state’s and even countries have not. It has really brought the world to our doorstep and enabled us to forge connections in every corner of the globe.
As we celebrate our diversity, we remain united as one people with the same values and desires to live in a harmonious and peaceful society. That is the beauty of multicultural society we have built here in NSW. This week, we also celebrate Harmony Day (Tuesday, 21 March), which coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Its origins serve as a poignant reminder that we must be united in our fight for peace and harmony. I invite everyone to join in celebrations this Harmony Week and Harmony Day and be proud to be a part of the world’s most successful multicultural society.”
Message from the Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper MP:
“Today marks the beginning of Harmony Week, which is an opportunity to reflect and celebrate our truly diverse multicultural State. Many migrants chose to make NSW their home when they arrived from all corners of the globe and for that we thank them for their immense contribution to our society.
We are proud that all citizens in our State are encouraged to celebrate their culture, speak their language, and practice their religion, whilst remaining united and sharing in our peaceful society. We also celebrate Harmony Day on 21 March, which happens to coincide with the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This reminds us of the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in our community.”
