To celebrate Harmony Week in The Hills, Bella Vista Pocket Park will come alive with cultural performances, food trucks and free craft activities on Friday 22 March.
The Hills Shire Council has partnered with Landcom and the Community Migrant Resource Centre to mark Harmony Week, an annual celebration of multiculturalism and diversity across Australia.
The Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi, said Harmony Week in The Hills was an opportunity to gain additional experience with and further appreciate a range of cultures.
“We are privileged that people from many different cultures choose to call The Hills Shire home, and this diversity builds the richness of our community,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“Nearly half of our residents were born overseas, and they bring a wealth of different perspectives and experiences to how we live.
“I encourage everyone to celebrate Harmony Week, either by joining the fun at Bella Vista Pocket Park or by further promoting the values of inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging in our homes, schools and workplaces.”
Landcom’s Development Director for Sydney Metro Northwest Places, Adam Turnbull said: “We are proud to be part of Harmony Week and looking forward to this event to celebrate the diverse cultures here in The Hills.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Community Migrant Resource Centre Melissa Monteiro shared similar views.
“We are proud to partner with The Hills Shire Council and Landcom to drive meaningful changes that promote community cohesion, sustainable development, and inclusivity during Harmony Week and beyond,” she said.
“Together, we are working to create a more vibrant and harmonious society where every individual feels valued and empowered to thrive.”
The message of Harmony Week is ‘everyone belongs’, supporting inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of their cultural background. The colour orange is traditionally worn during Harmony Week to represent social communication, two-way conversation and new ideas.
Since 1945, more than 7.5 million people have migrated to Australia. According to 2021 Census information, 40.4 per cent of people living in The Hills Shire were born overseas, with India, China, and the United Kingdom cited as the top three countries of origin. The Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Iran, Hong Kong and New Zealand make up the top 10.
Get involved in Harmony Day in The Hills on Friday 22 March from 4pm to 7pm at Bella Vista Pocket Park next to Bella Vista Metro Station.
