‘EVERYBODY BELONGS’: CELEBRATING HARMONY WEEK 18TH-24TH MARCH

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said that today marks the start of Harmony Week 2024 (18th-24th March) when Australians celebrate the rich cultural diversity of our country. 

“As the son of a migrant and as I am regularly attending various citizenship ceremonies across our region, I always feel privileged to be inspired by many people from all cultures and from all walks of life who want to share in our Australian story,” Mr Ward said.

“One of the roles I enjoy most about being your local Member of Parliament is meeting and welcoming new citizens to our big Australian family with boundless plains to share as are the words in the national anthem.

“Harmony Week reinforces the importance of inclusiveness for all Australians and respect for cultural and religious diversity.

“The growing wearing of orange – the colour of Harmony Week – in various workplaces and the many initiatives around our country in support of Harmony Week is a welcome and a positive step towards progress,” Mr Ward said.

“Harmony Week is about community participation, a sense of belonging and inclusiveness. But, above all, it is about respect for each other.

“This Thursday 21st March is also the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination,” he said.

“Harmony Week encourages people to participate in our local communities, to respect different cultures and religions and to foster a sense of belonging for everyone – as we should as one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world,” Mr Ward concluded.

Please click here to learn more details about Harmony Week 2024 events.