Coming together to celebrate our diversity – Harmony Day on the Sunshine Coast

The community are encouraged to celebrate Harmony Day and the rich cultural diversity that makes the Sunshine Coast a great place to live by attending free Colourfest short film screenings at council’s Caloundra, Maroochydore and Nambour libraries on March 21.

Two women share their experience in the Colourfest short film entitled Villawood Mums, directed by Guido Gonzales, which highlights there are only a few things that separate the arrival of Maria and Zahoor at Villawood: 10 years, a few policy reforms and two very large fences.

This is just one of six touching stories featured in the Harmony Day Colourfest event which showcases the success, challenges and nuances of migrant communities in Australia and the world.

Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said Harmony Day was a time to reflect on the rich cultural heritage of Sunshine Coast.

“To celebrate Harmony Day, council invites the community to enjoy free screenings of Colourfest’s selection of diverse Australian short films which focus on social inclusion and identity,” Cr McKay said.

“Harmony Day is about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.

“There is no doubt our diversity helps makes Australia – and indeed the Sunshine Coast – a great place to live.

“We are fortunate to enjoy different cultures, foods, ideas, minds, music and art that come from all over the world.”

Cr McKay said there was no doubt our people and their diversity contribute to the colourful social fabric of the Coast.

“Our region has a diverse and growing multicultural population with one in every five people born overseas representing 156 countries, 45 faiths and 96 languages,” Cr McKay said.

“These people contribute to the vibrancy of our community and I encourage them to share their Harmony Day celebrations and pictures on social media using #harmonyday.”

The Colourfest film screenings start at 12.30pm on March 21 at Caloundra, Maroochydore and Nambour libraries. Enjoy activities, displays and light refreshments will be provided.

Bookings are essential via council’s library website.

Did you know Sunshine Coast Libraries bring diversity of cultures together through music, with our online connections to more than 10 million streaming audio tracks?

Visit council’s library website to explore the endless free opportunities available as a member of Sunshine Coast Libraries.

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

To find out more and find other events happening across the region, visit the Harmony Day website www.harmony.gov.au and don’t forget to share on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.