Celebrating our cultural diversity on Harmony Day

Today is Harmony Day - Australia’s largest multicultural celebration.  Across the nation in schools, workplaces, community centres and sporting clubs, Australians will be celebrating our rich cultural diversity.

More than 3,500 events will be held to showcase our contemporary cosmopolitan society.

Food fairs, singing, dancing, movie nights and concerts will display cultures and traditions from every corner of the globe.

Assistant Minister for Social Services and Multicultural Affairs, Senator Zed Seselja said Harmony Day is a great opportunity to celebrate our diverse cultures and our respect for each other.

“Harmony Day is a wonderful, vibrant and colourful reminder that we are one of the most diverse and yet socially cohesive nations on earth,” Assistant Minister Seselja said.

“This is a day that helps us appreciate the enormous benefits of cultural diversity while understanding that first and foremost we are all Australians and we all belong.

“The glue that binds us together and confirms our sense of belonging is mutual respect.

The Assistant Minister said that cultural diversity has contributed enormously to Australia’s development and prosperity.

“Harmony Day is a good time to reflect on all these benefits as we enjoy the feast of cultural activities taking place,” he said.

“I would like to thank everyone organising events this year and helping to spread the message that in Australia, everyone belongs.

“The messages of Harmony Day can be lived by each of us, every day, but it is great that we have set aside one day to highlight them and celebrate what we have achieved together.”