Harmony Day showcases the strength in our diversity

Published Tuesday, 21 March, 2017 at 07:05 AM

Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, Minister for Racing and Minister for Multicultural Affairs
The Honourable Grace Grace

“Everyone belongs” is the theme of this year’s Harmony Day celebrations which will be celebrated across Australia today. 

As well as being Harmony Day, March 21 is also the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Multicultural Affairs Minister, Grace Grace, said it was wonderful to hear of the many celebrations that were occurring in schools, workplaces, childcare centres, churches and community groups across the country. 

“Harmony Day provides everyone with the opportunity to acknowledge the importance of belonging. 

“Celebrations for Harmony Day have been held since 1999 and since then, it has grown to become a significant community event across the country. 

“Orange is the colour that represents Harmony Day and I, along with my parliamentary colleagues, will be wearing my orange ribbon with pride when parliament sits today,” said Ms Grace. 

Ms Grace said that Harmony Day highlighted the strength of multiculturalism and the benefits that diversity brings. 

“I’m proud to be part of a government that values multiculturalism and the benefits that it brings. 

“Migrants and refugees bring new perspectives, skills and global knowledge to our state, filling skills gaps and labour shortages. 

“Migrants, refugees and their children have helped build our state’s economy creating a range of opportunities that have benefited us all. 

“Harmony Day is the perfect way to celebrate this diversity and I would encourage everyone to get involved in Harmony Day activities today.” 

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548