Queensland's largest celebration of multiculturalism is underway – with a range of activities, events and webinars taking place across the state.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard said the theme of Multicultural Queensland Month 2021 was 'Inclusion in action' – recognising the role everyone plays in contributing to the state's identity and economic prosperity.
"The Palaszczuk Government is committed to celebrating Queensland's diversity, while fostering a united and inclusive community," Ms Linard said.
"As well as celebrating the month I'm also pleased to announce the launch of the government's next round of Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants.
Ms Linard said more than $800,000 in funding will go to organisations who want to undertake multicultural festivals, events and activities that celebrate Queensland's cultural diversity in 2022.
"Many of the events and activities being undertaken throughout this month are recipients of Celebrating Multicultural Queensland Grants in 2021," she said.
"Nothing connects people together like multicultural festivals and events do and they contribute so much to creating healthy societies, building social cohesion and stimulating local economies."
Ms Linard said that throughout Multicultural Queensland Month this August, we are encouraging everyone across the state to connect, share, listen, learn.
"Everyone is also encouraged to acknowledge that, while we may come from different communities and cultures, our diversity is at the core of who we are as Queenslanders."
"We can all learn about other cultures and appreciate the benefits of diversity in our personal relationships and in our workplaces."
Ms Linard encouraged Queenslanders to jump on the Multicultural Queensland Month website to check out the webinars and other activities happening throughout August.
"While COVID has affected many of us, some organisations have pivoted to move activities online or virtually, to ensure we can still celebrate the wonderful benefits that multiculturalism brings to Queensland," she said.
"A series of free webinars, facilitated by the Griffith University MATE program that explore topics such as racism prevention, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and gender-based violence is just one of the online activities available."
Ms Linard said the website also featured heart-warming stories of inclusion in action in our communities and workforces.
"I encourage you to watch the stories, join the activities and embrace Multicultural Queensland Month – so we can continue our important work of building an even more inclusive Queensland," she said.
I'd also encourage organisations across Queensland to apply for grants from the Celebrate Multicultural Queensland grants round.
"Multicultural Queensland Month and the CMQ grants are part of the Palaszczuk Government's strategy through the Multicultural Queensland Charter to promote our state as a welcoming and inclusive place for migrants, refugees or people seeking asylum.
Ms Linard thanked principal corporate sponsor Commonwealth Bank and sponsors Telstra and GOA for their support to ensure Queensland's largest Multicultural celebration in 2021 offered great opportunities for the community to get involved.
