May Monthly Reflections

This month has reminded Victorians that COVID-19 is still a major threat to our health and way of life. Reports on the devastating spread of coronavirus in other countries over the past several weeks has deeply impacted the diaspora communities in Victoria and many have stepped up to fundraise for them. Thank you. Closer to home, this threat has hit Victoria once again. It is heartbreaking to watch.

This monthly report reflects some of the activities and highlights we enjoyed during May, prior to the new lockdown restrictions. I hope it serves to remind you what we have to look forward to, once we get through the current situation by following the public health directions and supporting one another.

I hope that anyone who has visited an exposure site or is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms will get tested, even with the mildest of symptoms. If you’re eligible to be vaccinated, please book a vaccination as soon as possible. If you have any symptoms, please get tested first. 

By following the public health guidance over the coming days, weeks and months, we will once again be able to reunite with loved ones in a safe way.

And to faith leaders and cultural event organisers, we again implore you to make sure you’re using the free Victorian Government QR Code Service for check-ins at your venues, once physical gatherings recommence. It is a requirement that all worshippers and attendees check in. Doing this can save lives.

Eid

The month of May featured some wonderful, life-affirming occasions. On Thursday 13 May, our Muslim communities marked the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr. Many people came together at community events, while others celebrated at home.

I would like to thank all the groups who invited the VMC commissioners or myself to Iftar dinners during Ramadan. It was a privilege to break the fast with so many Victorians observing this sacred time of reflection.

These Iftars have not only given me the opportunity to learn more about Ramadan, but also of the history and partnerships between multifaith communities. I encourage everyone to support community grassroots organisations if we want to fight racism and strengthen social harmony.

Thank you to the East Preston Islamic College for the invite to their Annual Ramadan Dinner. I will hopefully see you next year!

Curious Conversations

Our Curious Conversations series rolled on in May, as we hosted our third public lecture. This time around we had some eminent Victorian thinkers consider the future of the justice system through the viewpoint of multicultural communities. It was a fascinating discussion. Some important ideas to come out of it included better access to justice and legal services for multicultural communities and targeted diversionary programs. The importance of these services being delivered by multicultural providers was underlined.

The panel also touched on the media reporting of crime by multicultural communities. If this part of the discussion piqued your interest, I suggest you stay tuned for our Curious Conversation in September, which will focus on media representation of multiculturalism in Victoria.

Stakeholder event

At the start of the month, we hosted a stakeholder cocktail event at the Melbourne Immigration Museum. It has been a long time between drinks – it was so good to catch up with some old friends and make some new ones too.

We witnessed some spectacular performances and showcased exciting opportunities for organisations to support VMC events in 2021 and beyond.

To find out more about VMC partnerships, please email us at [email protected].

Dance and musical performances at the stakeholder cocktail event channelled cultural traditions from all over the world.

Spending time with old and new friends at the stakeholder cocktail event.

Victorian 2021/22 budget

The VMC welcomed the news of the Victorian Government’s commitment to enhanced engagement with CALD communities in the recent budget announcement.

We shared our thoughts on the contents of the budget on Twitter, which you can read here.

Reconciliation Week

May 27 to 3 June is Reconciliation Week, and this year’s theme is ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action.’ We recognise that just saying sorry isn’t enough, and that we must work together to address the past and create a better future for our First Nations People.

We all have a role to play in listening, learning and acknowledging the truth-telling of First Nations People. To read about positive actions you can take visit the National Reconciliation Week website.

Coming up: Refugee Week

Refugee Week, from 20 to 27 June, is a national celebration of the contributions of refugees to Australia. Now in its 35th year, the week also raises awareness about important issues currently affecting refugees.

I encourage Victorians to get involved, celebrate people from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds and listen to their stories.

Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination for a Refugee Award. I have heard the pool is strong, and our judges have been poring over the submissions. Look out for more details on how we will be announcing the winners soon.

The National Council of Jewish Women of Australia Victoria 20th Anniversary.

I know the activities in this month’s reflections feel like a long time ago, given the current situation here in Victoria. I also understand many are in need of food relief and other support. I have shared many links to services available in previous email newsletters, or you can check out our Facebook, Instagram and website for information on other support available to you.

Stay safe all.

See you soon

Viv Nguyen