Cultural Diversity Week is celebrated in March to coincide with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and Harmony Day, which are marked on 21 March.
This year’s Cultural Diversity Week theme pushes the boundaries and asks: What does multicultural Victoria look like in 2030?
Inclusion and Fairness Coordinator Terri Wright said the week is a great opportunity to celebrate all cultures in CFA and educate ourselves further.
“This year we are promoting a number of ways to increase your understanding of cultural diversity, help create an inclusive environment, promote and celebrate the success of diverse people and visibly show support.
“The CFA Learning Hub also has a fantastic Cultural Inclusion module that all members can complete.
“The course builds capability around cultural diversity,” Terri added. “Members will learn about the benefits of cultural diversity, about cultural differences and similarities and about cultural adaptation.”
Cultural Diversity Engagement Officer Nada El-Masri has been working on a number of short films on CFA safety messages to use as educational tools for various cultures.
Titled ‘We speak your language’, this project is a collection of culturally-appropriate films that aim to fill the gap of translated safety messages for different cultural communities.
Members can view the first two videos on the CFA YouTube channel.
We Speak Your Language - Malayalam
We Speak Your Language - Chinese
Three more films are currently being developed for 2021 which includes Indonesian, South Africa and CFA Juniors.
Members can find out more about the week on the Inclusion and Fairness Intranet page. Members can also seek assistance or share event photos with the Inclusion and Fairness Team
It’s important to continue to stay safe whilst celebrating Cultural Diversity Week and follow the current coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions that are in place to protect both yourself and the community. More information on current restrictions can be found on the DHHS website.