QUEENSLANDERS CARPET RACISM: MINISTER
Published Tuesday, 16 October, 2007 at 05:47 PM
Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr
More than 45,000 people celebrated the Smart State’s cultural diversity at this year’s successful Queensland Multicultural Festival – and many signed their names on a mural opposing racism.
Multicultural Affairs Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the mural, a carpet full of signatures and motifs, gives racism the boot and will go on public display later this year.
“It is a reminder that racism will not be tolerated in Queensland, a State that proudly boasts its rich cultural diversity,” she said.
“For 166 people from 33 countries who attended the Citizenship Ceremony in the morning, the Multicultural Festival will no doubt be one of the most memorable in their lives.
“After the formalities, the celebrations continued all day with performers from 66 different cultural groups across five stages, while 35 international food stalls made sure all the senses were tingling.”
The Minister said the Caravan Procession of the Gypsies was a big drawcard on the day, following on from the crowd-pleasing Brazilian parade last year.
“We’re now on the look out for a new twist to incorporate in the 2008 Festival so watch this space,” said the Minister.
Along with free workshops for families, there were hit performances by Bobby Flynn, Deborah Conway, Willy Zygier and the Doch.
“I want to thank our generous sponsors and all the volunteers for their hard work behind the scenes,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
For more information, visit www.multiculturalfestival.qld.gov.au
Media contact: Minister's Office 3235 4280
Multicultural Affairs Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the mural, a carpet full of signatures and motifs, gives racism the boot and will go on public display later this year.
“It is a reminder that racism will not be tolerated in Queensland, a State that proudly boasts its rich cultural diversity,” she said.
“For 166 people from 33 countries who attended the Citizenship Ceremony in the morning, the Multicultural Festival will no doubt be one of the most memorable in their lives.
“After the formalities, the celebrations continued all day with performers from 66 different cultural groups across five stages, while 35 international food stalls made sure all the senses were tingling.”
The Minister said the Caravan Procession of the Gypsies was a big drawcard on the day, following on from the crowd-pleasing Brazilian parade last year.
“We’re now on the look out for a new twist to incorporate in the 2008 Festival so watch this space,” said the Minister.
Along with free workshops for families, there were hit performances by Bobby Flynn, Deborah Conway, Willy Zygier and the Doch.
“I want to thank our generous sponsors and all the volunteers for their hard work behind the scenes,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
For more information, visit www.multiculturalfestival.qld.gov.au
Media contact: Minister's Office 3235 4280