Celebrating Diversity: Harmony Day
On the 22nd of March, 2024, a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity was organized atthe Hume Global Learning Center in Craigieburn, hosted by the Australian Multicultural Organization, in collaboration with the Hume City Council, Brotherhood of St. Laurence, and Spectrum Organization. The event aimed to honor and rejoice in the myriad of cultures and traditions by welcoming participants from a wide array of cultural backgrounds, including the Nepali, Indian, African, and Eritrean communities. Through adiverse range of activities, participants had the opportunity to immerse themselves inthe cultures, traditions, languages, and customs of various ethnic groups.
The event commenced with insightful speeches from esteemed guests, including HelenPatsikatheodorou, a respected former Mayor of Hume City, and Rasha Abbas, CEO ofIn Touch, who shared their perspectives on the importance of fostering inclusivity andunderstanding in society. Kholoud Ahmed from the Australian Multicultural CommunityCenter, Mazin Kalakyan from Brotherhood of St. Laurence, and Resham Ishag fromSpectrum Organization delivered inspiring messages, emphasizing the significance ofunity amidst diversity.
Highlighting the artistic talents within the community, the team from Sridevi Arts Schoolcaptivated the audience with a mesmerizing dance performance, showcasing thebeauty and grace of various cultural expressions.
Throughout the event, attendees were immersed in enlightening videos capturing the essence of Harmony Day, the cultural significance of Ramadan, and the lively heritage of Nepal. During the event, there were stalls with things like cultural and traditional items from African, Nepali, and Ramadan cultures. People from all backgrounds could learn and enjoy these things. At the end of the day, everyone gathered to together for Iftar, which helped everyone feel friendly and connected, fostering a sense unity and goodwill among all present.
The Harmony Day event at Hume Global Learning Center served as a reminder of the strength that lies in embracing diversity. It was a celebration of unity, acceptance, and the shared humanity that binds us all together, enriching the fabric of our community. Through events like these, we continue to build bridges of understanding and respect, creating a brighter and more inclusive future for generations to come.