A multicultural fusion of nationalities was the focus of the Federal Parliamentary Friends of Multiculturalism launch in Victoria.
The launch was held at Alphington Grammar School on Friday (June 21), and attended by many diverse nationalities and community representatives.
Highlights of the evening included a special message from Prime Minister Julia Gillard, and speeches by SBS Chairman Joseph Skrzynski and former MP and multicultural advocate Professor Petro Georgiou.
Added to the proceedings was a sand artist’s interpretation of multiculturalism, as well as a refugee’s account of his journey and a musical rendition of South Africa’s world cup song “A World in Union”.
Labor Member for Calwell Maria Vamvakinou and Liberal Member Russell Broadbent said as the group’s co-convenors they were thrilled with the groups success and widespread support since its inception on March 24th.“Multiculturalism is part of the link to our cultural heritage,“ Ms Vamvakinou and Mr Broadbent said.
“It is these cultural ties, woven as they are into a vast tapestry, that make up the cosmopolitan community Australia has become.”
“As the national anthem says in the second verse: For those who’ve come across the seas, we’ve boundless plains to share with courage let us all combine To Advance Australia Fair.”
The Federal Parliamentary Friends of Multiculturalism plans to host satellite events in all of Australia’s states and territories.
