Council extends its zone of warm welcomes

THE achievements, contribution and rich diversity of Greater Dandenong’s refugee communities will be celebrated during Refugee Week from 15 to 21 June.
Greater Dandenong has been a Refugee Welcome Zone since 2002.
Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti said the council was committed to supporting and advocating for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.
“Council has a long and proud history of supporting the settlement of new migrants,” he said.
“Greater Dandenong is one of 90 councils across Australia which have signed a Refugee Welcome Zone Declaration.”
The key event for the week’s celebration will be held on Saturday 21 June at the new Dandenong Library.
Journey of Hope will feature Arnold Zable, a renowned writer, storyteller, educator and human rights advocate, together with musical performances.
This event will also provide a unique opportunity for Greater Dandenong residents to write messages of welcome to the city’s refugee residents.
At 4.30pm, the City of Greater Dandenong Youth Services FReeZA Committee – in partnership with Southern Ethnic Advisory and Advocacy Council (SEAAC) – will present an innovative theatrical performance at The Castle in Hemmings Park, Princes Highway, Dandenong.
The SEACC theatrical show invites community members to share their stories about settling in Australia or living in a multicultural community.
These stories will then be performed by the Melbourne Playback Theatre – an improvised theatre company – which will bring them to life through a captivating performance.
Also included will be a guest appearance by SeaACT, the youth performers from the City of Greater Dandenong and the City of Casey.
From 7.30pm to 11.30pm, the community’s younger residents (aged 12 to 25 years) are invited to the Ballistik dance party which will feature the latest hip hop and dance anthems.
A free and fully-supervised event, it will be smoke, alcohol and drug-free with food and soft drink available for purchase.
Further information including the Refugee Week events’ calendar is available at greaterdandenong.com or by contacting the council on 8571 5265.