Harmony Week begins today, with Western Australians from all backgrounds set to celebrate the State's wealth of cultural, faith, linguistic and ethnic diversity.
The annual event provides an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to multiculturalism and diversity—while continuing to oppose racism, prejudice and discrimination in all its forms.
Many of Perth's iconic landmarks—including Parliament House, Council House, Elizabeth Quay, Matagarup Bridge, Mount Street pedestrian bridge, Sky Ribbon, the Bell Tower and Yagan Square—will be lit up orange to mark Harmony Week.
"Harmony Week began as a Western Australian event and grew into an Australia-wide celebration of our multicultural country," said Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister, Paul Papalia CSC MLA.
"Western Australians should be proud of leading the nation in celebrating all the things that make up our diverse country great.
"Cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths, bringing so many benefits to us all. Harmony Week is our annual chance to celebrate this.
"I encourage everyone to get involved with Harmony Week and share your activities by using the hashtag #WAHarmony on your social media posts."
Explore www.omi.wa.gov.au for a wealth of information for community members wanting to get involved—including the Harmony Week toolkit, which includes materials for schools and workplaces wishing to participate.