Activities and entertainment to mark Harmony Day

4 March 2021

Bega Valley Shire Council will celebrate the region’s cultural diversity and inclusiveness with a free COVID Safe Harmony Day event in Littleton Gardens from 10am to 2pm on Saturday 20 March.

“Our shire’s multicultural community grows every year and Harmony Week, from 15 to 21 March, is when we come together to celebrate our cultural diversity and spread the message that everyone belongs,” Council’s Community Development and Engagement Coordinator, Scott Baker said.

“Cultural awareness is about recognising that all people are influenced by their cultural background and experiences.

“This year’s Harmony Day event will remind the community why our cultural diversity is one of our greatest assets and how we are stronger because of it.

“We have a line-up of exciting activities and great entertainment for everyone to enjoy.”

The day will begin with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Colleen Dixon followed by the Gadhu Dancers from Bermagui Public School and Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick’s address to the community.

There will be performances by Djembe Forte (African drumming group), Stonewave Taiko (Japanese drumming group), South Coast Thai and Filipino dance troupes, One Gener8ion and Black Jesus Experience from Melbourne with special guest Warren Foster Jr (Prodikal One).

“The event will also feature a Yarning Circle facilitated by Tamika Gaudie, locally made films from Far South Coast Film featuring the diversity of the Bega Valley Shire and surrounds, market stalls, multicultural food and a Harmony Through Truth discussion panel at the start of the day from local First Nations people,” Mr Baker said.

“To continue the Harmony Day conversation, there is an Uluru Statement from the Heart discussion panel, with special guests Teela Reid and Thomas Mayor, presented by the Social Justice Advocates of the Sapphire Coast, in the Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre from 2pm -5pm.

“We want everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, to come along, have fun and appreciate that our differences make our community a great place to live.

“We also encourage people to share their Harmony Week celebrations and pictures on social media using #harmonyweek and #everyonebelongs.”

Harmony Week coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.