• Celebrating cultural diversity this Harmony Week

    Celebrating cultural diversity this Harmony Week

    Each year, Resthaven celebrates Harmony Week and Australia’s cultural diversity.

    Priscilla de Pree, Resthaven’s Multicultural Project Officer, says ‘Resthaven recognises and embraces the diversity of the Australian community, which is reflected in Resthaven’s residents, clients, employees and volunteers.’

    ‘Our latest Cultural and Diversity Data report states that 47% of Resthaven staff members have a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background.’

    ‘Did you know that the staff members at Resthaven represent 90 different countries, and clients and residents represent a remarkable 141 countries?’

    ‘This is a considerable number and showcases the diversity of our workforce of more than 3,000 employees and 220 volunteers,’ she says.

    Harmony Day, on 21 March, is a day of celebrating inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging; a day for all Australians to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common.

    ‘The central message for Harmony Day is that “everyone belongs.” It is a community celebration and a week of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home,’ Priscilla says.

    ‘Orange is the colour chosen to represent Harmony Week. Traditionally, orange signifies social communication and meaningful conversations, but it also relates to the freedom of ideas and encouragement of mutual respect.’

    ‘We’re encouraging Resthaven staff to wear something orange during Harmony Week to show their support for cultural diversity and an inclusive Australia.’

    ‘This year, the staff at Resthaven’s Head Office at Wayville will celebrate Harmony Day with our traditional shared lunch.’

    ‘This continues the true Aussie tradition of ‘bringing a plate to share’, but the guidelines are a bit different — staff will bring a dish that represents their cultural heritage or upbringing, snacks from different countries, orange coloured food or anything else in the spirit of celebrating cultural diversity.’

    ‘Events will also be held at other sites. It is always an enjoyable day.’

    Resthaven is a richly diverse community founded on the principles of inclusion and unity, embracing and respecting each person’s beliefs, culture, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, lifestyle, life experiences and values.