East Gippsland officially a Refugee Welcome Zone
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East Gippsland Shire Council received recognition of the shire’s Refugee Welcome Zone status at its monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 13.
Mayor Cr Natalie O’Connell signed the declaration which was presented by East Gippsland Asylum Seekers Support Group chairman Bob Hindle.
Members of the group were in the gallery to watch the milestone.
The declaration states it is ‘a commitment in spirit to welcoming refugees into our community, upholding the human rights of refugees, demonstrating compassion for refugees and enhancing cultural and religious diversity in our community’.
Cr O’Connell said council can help refugees adjust to their new home.
“Local government plays an important role in building strong, socially cohesive communities. We do this through the projects we undertake and the services and programs we offer,” Cr O’Connell said.
East Gippsland Shire Mayor Cr Natalie O’Connell and East Gippsland Asylum Seeker Support Group chairman Bob Hindle with the Refugee Welcome Zone declaration.