Harmony Day, which began in 1999, occurs on 21 March each year and
celebrates Australia's success as a diverse society united by a common
set of values. An Australian Government Initiative, Harmony Day
provides an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate our successes
as a culturally diverse society and re-commit ourselves to harmony and
mutual respect.
Since 1945, more than six million people have
settled in Australia and in 60 years of post-war migration Australia’s
population has jumped from 6 million to approximately 20 million.
Between us we now speak more than 200 languages, including 45
Indigenous languages. This language and cultural diversity makes a
significant contribution to Australia's society.
Australia
celebrates its commitment to racial respect and community harmony each
year on 21 March, Harmony Day, a date which coincides with the United
Nations' International Day for the Elimination of Racial
Discrimination. Events are held throughout Australia around this day to
celebrate and foster harmony within communities.
The Australian
Government provides assistance to community organisations to complete
projects which recognise and celebrate Harmony Day in our community and
which provide young Australians with the opportunity to think about our
Australian shared values such as mutual respect, participation,
opportunity and a fair go for all.
For more information, please visit http://www.harmony.gov.au