Social guide to sweep away prejudice

A NEW guide to the diverse Indian culture is tackling community prejudice and conflict.
The Federation of Indian Origin Multi-Faith Organisations (FIMO) launched The Indian Interfaith Guide at Museum India in Dandenong on 7 February.
It covers social norms and practices of various faiths and is designed to help the courts, community organisations, individuals and others to proactively address potential causes of conflict, difference and prejudice.
The Confederation of Indian Australian Association (CIAA) joined FIMO in hosting the launch event which also celebrated Australia Day and Indian Republic Day.
More than 100 dignitaries attended the evening, including community organisation presidents, faith group leaders and service providers.
FIMO founder and trustee, CIAA chair and Australian Multicultural Council member Vasan Srinivasan was the evening’s MC and said Victoria had a proud multicultural history.
“It is incumbent upon all Victorians to protect this important legacy, built up over many generations,” he said.
“During internationally challenging times, there is an additional duty to understand the people with whom we share this country.”
The State Government’s Office of Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship (OMAC) funded the guide, which FIMO created with community input.
Limited hard copies are available from Museum India and a flipbook version will be online at fimo.org.au.