Inaugural event celebrates diversity

GEELONG’S inaugural diversity symposium has celebrated inclusion across the region with peak bodies delivering the important messages.

Held on June 18, the online event was presented in partnership with Diversitat Aged Support, Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative and Geelong Rainbow Inc.

More than 70 participants received training with culturally and linguistically diverse communities, participated in a workshop on LGBTI diversity and inclusion as well as completed an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural safety session.

Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative CEO Lisa Briggs called the partnership between the peak diversity organisations essential to delivering and inclusive program.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership with Diversitat and Geelong Rainbow Inc to provide the Geelong community with access to training, information and resources on the importance of centering the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their experiences,” she said.

Geelong Rainbow Inc president Andrew Guillaume credited the event with facilitating support between all communities.

“The collaboration was a meeting of like-minded people who share the vision of uniting with one clear message – we are stronger together,” he said.

“The inaugural Diversity Symposium is evidence of that. Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion is something the LGBTIQ+ community is renowned for, and we are very excited moving forward with our community allies.

“In uncertain times, one thing is for certain – now, more than ever – it is essential to celebrate not only our similarities, but our differences.”

Funded by Multicultural Festivals and Events Victoria, participants enjoyed the culturally inspired entertainment from Piano Bar by Joss Russell, One Spirit Africa and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural dances from Mietta Scarlett, Ngara McEwen and Piper Knox.

Diversitat Aged Support general manager Robyn Martinez said she was overwhelmed by the positive feedback following the event.

“Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to our online Diversity Symposium,” she said.

“Due to the overwhelmingly positive response from facilitators and participants alike we are already planning our next event.”