The Municipal Association of Victoria’s (MAV) 2012 Statement of Commitment to Cultural Diversity celebrates the state’s diverse cultures, languages, faiths and ethnicity.
Recognising the important role that councils play in the development and support of local communities and in fostering social cohesion, the statement released by the MAV provides leadership in terms of supporting and strengthening local government’s responses to cultural diversity.
MAV President, Councillor Bill McArthur, said that Victoria was one of the world’s great multicultural societies, with people from more than 200 nations, speaking over 200 languages and dialects, and following more than 120 faiths.
“Collectively and individually, diversity is integral to our identity. It contributes to the economic, social, political and cultural lives of our local communities.
“Cultural diversity is an everyday reality for local government. Councils play a lead role in developing ways for communities to celebrate and embrace cultural diversity, as well as coordinating local responses to overcome racial intolerances.
“Our 2012 Statement of Commitment sets out the MAV’s ongoing role in supporting the building of strong and healthy communities, free of inequity by harnessing and nurturing the richness of cultural diversity. It also recognises and respects the unique place of Aboriginal people as the first inhabitants of the land.
“The MAV’s vision is for a strong local government sector providing leadership in the way multiculturalism is recognised, nurtured, respected and valued.
“Already, councils are doing a great job in this area, and have fantastic support programs in place for our culturally and linguistically diverse populations. Central elements of access, equity, participation and inclusiveness underpin all of local government business,” said Cr McArthur.
“No matter how large or small the culturally diverse population is in any one municipality, councils need to have mechanisms in place that respond to the needs of all members of their
communities in an inclusive and meaningful way.”
