More cultural funding from the NSW government…and a Yom Ha’azmaut message
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism John Ajaka has announced that funding is available for events that help bring communities together and celebrate cultural diversity…and has sent a message to the NSW Jewish community for Yom Ha’azmaut.
John Ajaka
The Multicultural NSW Celebration Grants provide funding of up to $5,000 for festivals and events that bring communities together, showcase the benefits of cultural diversity and promote social cohesion.
“Our diverse and harmonious multicultural community is undoubtedly something we should celebrate,” Mr Ajaka said.
“Importantly, beneath all the fun and entertainment, these events convey important messages about cultural diversity and social cohesion.”
Last financial year, more than 100 local community events received funding under the Celebration Grants program. One example was the Ritmo Brazilian Festival organized by the Brazilian Community Council of Australia who received funding through the Celebration Grants Program.
“Ritmo 2015 was a huge success. We had a record attendance of 23,000 people enjoying the street festival of food, music, dance and kids entertainment. It was crowned one of the top five festivals in Darling Harbour last year,” Event Director Cinthia Nascimento said.
“The grant was a big help for us in 2015 and now we are working on our next street party in June which is also supported by a Celebration Grant. We are grateful for Multicultural NSW’s ongoing support.”
Only not- for-profit community organisations and local councils staging events for the entire community are eligible to apply and applications close 17 June 2016. Applications open three times a year.
Projects are assessed on how many people are likely to attend, whether the project will benefit intercultural understanding and be cost-effective.
In a Yom Ha’azmaut message to the NSW Jewish community, Minister Ajaka said: “It is my great pleasure to offer my best wishes to everyone celebrating Israel Independence Day in New South Wales.
This is a day for the people of Israel and the Jewish communities all over the world to celebrate their rich culture and diversity in the spirit of unity.
The NSW Government is proud and grateful for its close relationship with the Australian-Jewish community. The Premier of NSW, the Hon Mike Baird MP was proud to have led the first trip by a sitting NSW Premier to Israel earlier this year, forging closer connections across business, communities and medical research sectors.
The Australian-Jewish community have contributed substantially to our society and has played a central role in developing this State’s wealth and culture.
I would also like to take the opportunity to thank members of the Jewish community of New South Wales for your commitment to social harmony, peace and inter-faith dialogue.
I wish the people and government of Israel a Happy Independence Day.”
