Harmony Day was launched in 1998 as part of the Federal Government’s Living in Harmony initiative. Living in Harmony focuses on all the common values that makes us all Australians.
For many Australians, our national identity is inextricably linked to Australian citizenship. In its 53 years of existence, Australian citizenship has played a unique and important part in building our nation and provides a sense of who we are placed in the world. Choosing to become an Australian citizen demonstrates in a concrete way, commitment to Australia and the desire to belong and contribute to Australia.
Events that some Local Governments undertook as part of Harmony Day 2002 celebrations include the following.
Holroyd City Council in New South Wales held a citizenship affirmation ceremony on 21 March. This was followed by examples of cultural expressions through performing arts, and a halal barbeque.
Circular Head Council in Tasmania organised a Harmony Day Oath and Reaffirmation for Australian citizens. A range of multicultural foods were available to community members while being entertained by guest speakers.
Johnstone Shire Council in Far North Queensland held a Diversity Seminar – Harmony In Difference, for community and government sector workers, students, volunteers and interested people.
At the City of Salisbury in South Australia, a Citizenship Ceremony was followed by the launch of the Kaurna Park Aboriginal Interpretive Trail on 21 March 2002. A Harmony Day banner was designed which hung outside Council from 18-22 March, and posters where distributed to all Neighbourhood Houses for display.
Harmony Day was a great success throughout Australia.
