Inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, from the Traditional Owners of the land to our most recent arrivals. That’s the message of Harmony Week 2024, which runs from Monday 18 to Sunday 24 March at locations across the country.
It’s a time to come together with friends and family and through schools, workplaces and our wider communities to celebrate our diversity and multiculturalism.
And there’s much to celebrate. Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. Nearly half of our population was born overseas or has at least one parent who was, and collectively we identify with over 300 ancestries.
Every one of the 7.5 million people who has migrated to Australia since 1945 has brought with them some of their own cultural and religious traditions, as well as taking on many new traditions. Collectively, these traditions have enriched our nation and helped make Australia a great place to live.
Harmony Week is celebrated during the week that includes 21 March, which is the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It’s a good opportunity for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to ending racism, and doing our part to foster a culture of tolerance, equality and anti-discrimination— from our local communities, to our cities, and throughout Australia.
To get involved with Harmony Week, head to www.harmony.gov.au to find out what events are on in your area and how to participate online. It might be something as simple as hosting a morning tea for your colleagues, organising a barbecue with your neighbours, or attending a concert, exhibition or fundraising event.
During Harmony Week—and especially on Harmony Day—we can all choose to wear something orange to show our support for cultural diversity and an inclusive Australia. Traditionally, orange signifies social communication and meaningful conversations. It also relates to the freedom of ideas and encouragement of mutual respect, values that bring us together and help to make the world a better place for everyone.
While you’re celebrating the success of Australia’s multicultural community, remember that there are still cultural barriers which must be removed.
Mental health support is one area of particular concern for Flourish Australia.
Data indicates that many Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds do not seek out mental health support services due to cultural barriers. We can all help to break down this barrier by creating inclusive environments that are welcoming to everyone, regardless of background, ethnicity or creed.
Flourish Australia is committed to diversity. We ensure the work we do is always done in a culturally safe, respectful and discrimination-free manner.
To find out more about our commitment to diversity, and how you can help break down barriers to mental health care and treatment, visit www.flourishaustralia.org.au/about/diversity-our-vision-future.
Have a happy, safe and enjoyable Harmony Week!
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