Organisations across Melton will host events marking Refugee Week this week, with this year’s theme emphasising the vital role of community and the diversity within it.
Running from June 15 to 21 and co-ordinated by Refugee Council of Australia, this year’s theme is a continuation of the three-year ‘Finding Freedom’ topic and according to the organisation, aims to draw attention to the “the vital role community plays in all our lives, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, language, disability, sexuality and age.”
Melton council will host a free community event from 11am–1pm at the Melton Community Hall on Wednesday, June 18, titled New beginnings: Refugee journeys to freedom and community integration .
The event will share the experiences of refugees through storytelling and conversation.
Presenters include keynote speaker Mariam Issa, who is a storyteller, life coach, author, educator, and community builder.
Associate research fellow, community leader, and criminology PhD candidate Abraham Kuol – who came to Australia from South Sudan as a refugee – will present a panel discussion, as will Kabul Education University former associate professor and Afghan Women Empowerment Association Victoria president Khatera Barez.
Mayor Steve Abboushi said the “contribution of refugees and asylum seekers to the diversity and growth of the [Melton municipality] is immense”.
“They bring unique cultures, a variety of skills, and a wealth of life experience that enriches our community,” Cr Abboushi said.
“Each year, [Melton] celebrates Refugee Week to recognise the positive contributions refugees and asylum seekers make to our city, and to raise awareness about the issues affecting them,” he said.
Melton Interfaith Network will host a free multicultural music and dance night at Fraser Rise community centre from 7–9pm on Friday, June 20 – with food provided.
Network president David Cowan said the organisation’s focus “is trying to make every group in the community feel a part of the community … to increase that social cohesion in the community – and we can all gain a lot from different cultures”.
