In a stirring message, Viv Nguyen, the Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC), celebrated the strength and resilience of Victoria’s refugee communities while commemorating World Refugee Day. She also took the opportunity to express appreciation for the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride Month and anticipate the start of National Aboriginals and Islanders Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week.
The Chairperson’s message of unity and respect comes on the back of the 2023 Victorian Refugee Awards held at the Immigration Centre, which was, according to Nguyen, an “incredible evening.” The event showcased the indomitable spirit of the award winners, whose inspiring narratives were at the centre of the evening. The worthy recipients, she insists, personify the energy and ardour of Victoria’s refugee communities.
In addition to celebrating the winners, Nguyen extended an invitation to the public to familiarise themselves with the backgrounds and accomplishments of the award recipients. As June is an annual awareness month for people with a refugee background, the VMC is keen to intensify its efforts and broaden its work in this area into 2024.
June is also a significant month for the LGBTQIA+ community as Pride Month unfolds. During this time, the community’s history, achievements, and continued fight for equality are celebrated. As the month concludes, Nguyen echoes the call for acceptance, love, and diversity. She emphasises the importance of acknowledging the intersectionality of work, especially when considering aspects such as sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, and refugee or asylum seeker background. To encourage further involvement and education, the Chairperson suggests exploring the Australian GLBTQI Multicultural Council and INTERSECT’s work.
The end of June segues into the National Aboriginals and Islanders Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week, which takes place from 2-9 July. This celebration honours the rich cultures, histories, and achievements of the First Nations people. This year’s theme, ‘For Our Elders,’ deeply resonates with Nguyen as it underscores the commonalities across different cultures. She praises the crucial role of elders who provide guidance, inspiration, and cultural wisdom to future generations.
As the world gears up for NAIDOC celebrations, Nguyen invites everyone to partake in the events near them, emphasising that they are a joyous and inclusive occasion.
The Chairperson concludes her message with a reminder that more unites us than divides us, leaving us with a timely thought for reflection.
She signs off by expressing gratitude and urging readers to stay updated with the latest VMC news and events.
In a world fraught with discord, Viv Nguyen’s passionate commitment to celebrating diversity and upholding the rights of all Victorians serves as a beacon of hope and unity.
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