The Victorian Multicultural Commission will postpone Cultural Diversity Week celebrations until later this year. Following an announcement last week to postpone its main events – Premier’s Gala Dinner and Victoria’s Multicultural Festival – the Commission will not promote Cultural Diversity Week from 21-29 March 2020.
“With Victoria in a State of Emergency, and with the rapidly changing situation around COVID-19, we don’t believe feel it is a time to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week. Instead, we are focusing on supporting Victoria’s multicultural communities to stay informed and connected.”
“We want to draw on the strength of our multicultural community to support each other through this crisis, as we have done many times before, including earlier this year in response to the bushfires,” she said.
The Commission is particularly concerned about vulnerable groups including seniors, new migrants and refugees and people with low English proficiency.
“We are asking people to think about their loved ones and people they know who may need some extra support. Taking the time to phone friends, family and neighbours is a simple way to stay connected.”
“If you have parents or older people in your life, we would also encourage you to reach out to them to ensure they have factual information about hygiene and safety, and the supplies they need,” said Ms Nguyen.
The Commission will acknowledge the United Nations Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March 2020.
“Addressing racism and discrimination, as well as recognising Victoria’s strength as a successful multicultural society, is vital as we stand together as one community in the face of this crisis,” said Ms Nguyen.
The Commission would like to thank its sponsors, suppliers and communities for their continued support. Future dates for Cultural Diversity Week are being considered and will be shared in due course.
