By Jamie Salter
South East Community Links (SECL) is helping to promote cultural diversity and inclusion by celebrating the multicultural community within the City of Casey.
The organisation held a Summer Fun Day at Hampton Park Community House to reduce stereotypes and discrimination, as well as promote and advocate for equality and opportunities for all.
The sun was shining and spirits were high as locals gathered to enjoy a free barbecue, henna art, face painting, cultural music and performances.
SECL head of settlement and family violence prevention Michelle Rowland said it was an important event after the community had been further disadvantaged by Covid-19.
“I think it means a lot, especially for the newly arrived Afghan community, so to be able to have something to welcome them is hugely important,” she said.
“Casey is one of the most multicultural diverse municipalities in the region and seeing them interact, appreciate each other and get to know their local services is really lovely.
“Organising something like this is a big project which we love to do, and we hope we can continue to have something like this again when things start opening up a bit more.”
United Cultural Support Inc’s Asia Batool supports Afghan youth and women to access different organisations.
She said newly arrived community members need a lot of support due to language barriers.
“Because we speak their language they call when they have questions, whether it’s about Covid-19 information or immigration support and when we can’t help, we refer them to other organisations,” she said.
“This is quite a colourful event and it’s great to see all the organisations here to inform the community members.
“We have been delivering our programs remotely through Zoom over the past two years which was difficult but we found a way.”
Cook4Cald president Ashvina De Zoysa started the charity during the coronavirus pandemic to provide food relief to the community.
She said it was wonderful to engage with people face to face.
“It’s all been word of mouth so far, so this is the first time we’ve been able to distribute flyers and build rapport with people,” she said.
“This is also the first time we’ve done a clothes drive and there’s so many people who have clothes to give away.
“All of the money will go directly to purchasing ingredients, sustainable packaging and renting our kitchen to provide food relief that’s completely free.”
Casey Proactive Unit Chlow Terlaak agreed it was a great day to be out in the community.
“With everything being cancelled, it’s great to celebrate with everyone and it’s nice to see our newly arrived community being supported,” she said.
