Key Three: Diversitat
HRAFF exists to create an ecosystem of individuals and organisations who champion creativity and human rights. As part of this mission, we are proud to partner with various community organisations who are already leading the way in this regard, to offer three practical steps that our audience can take to join the movement for social change.
Film: Midnight Traveler
Inclusivity and acceptance are at the heart of any truly culturally diverse community. Our impact partner Diversitat shares three key actions you can take to help create more culturally inclusive communities and safe spaces for our neighbours and our city.
Diversitat is the leading provider of services for ethnic communities in Geelong. They have offices in Geelong and Colac and have been serving the community for 45 years, and are in receipt of multiple government grants and delivery contracts. Their services include settlement, training, youth services, financial counselling, disability and aged support.
Action # 1: Develop your cultural competency
Cultural competency isn’t knowing or being an expert about all of the cultures around the world. It’s a stance of learning and relating to other cultures in a respectful manner. Visit the Melbourne Immigration Museum’s exhibition “Becoming you: an incomplete guide” to read about the lives of 72 storytellers and consider your own cultural story.
Action # 2: Support multicultural communities
Diversitat support new arrivals as they settle in Australia with housing, health, employment, education and community connections. They also host the annual Pako Festa – a celebration of all of the different multicultural communities in Geelong.
Action # 3: Talk to your neighbours
Sometimes those who are closest to us geographically are the people we know least about. Yet, getting to know your neighbours is a wonderful opportunity to connect with others. People who are new to Australia relish being welcomed into their neighbourhood community. Use these tips from Relationships Australia to start a conversation with your neighbours!
