Radio Brisvaani
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a vibrant metropolis known for its friendly character and diverse population. This dynamic city, with over one million residents, is Australia’s third-largest city and home to a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. Reflecting this diversity, the upcoming Empowering Migrants Expo, organized by the Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane chapter, aims to celebrate and bridge the many cultures that make Brisbane a truly global city.
A mosaic of cultures
Brisbane’s population is a testament to its multicultural essence. As of the 2001 Census, 23% of residents were born overseas, a figure that has grown significantly over the years. Today, more than 35% of Brisbane’s residents hail from different parts of the world, with 28% of households speaking languages other than English. This linguistic diversity includes Chinese, Vietnamese, Italian, Greek, and Spanish as the top languages spoken at home.
The city’s youth also reflect this cultural richness, with 18% of young people speaking a language other than English. Brisbane has welcomed many refugees, particularly from the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, adding to its cultural mosaic. The inner-south and outer south-west regions are noted for their significant diversity, hosting stable communities from Italy, Greece, Germany, and Poland.
Brisbane Vision 2031: An inclusive future
Brisbane Vision 2031 envisions the city as a place of strong, diverse communities where all residents, students, and visitors feel welcomed. This vision was developed with input from residents, emphasizing community involvement in city decisions. The Brisbane City Council is committed to valuing diversity, ensuring full civic participation for all, and combating social exclusion and discrimination.
As a member of Welcoming Cities since 2019, Brisbane promotes social, cultural, economic, and civic inclusion. The Council provides accessible services, collaborates with community groups, and fosters harmony and understanding among different communities. Events like the Lord Mayor’s Refugee Welcome Ceremony and various cultural festivals further underscore Brisbane’s commitment to celebrating its rich diversity.
Challenges and support for migrants
Despite Brisbane’s inclusive ethos, migrants and refugees often face barriers to full participation in community life. Challenges include accessing information, services, employment, training, and housing, as well as overcoming social exclusion, racism, and discrimination. Additionally, many migrant communities struggle with understanding the role of local government.
To address these issues, the Brisbane chapter of Bhartiya Samaj has taken significant steps. Founded to continue the legacy of its New Zealand counterpart, the organization focuses on empowering people, building strong identities, and fostering connections among diverse communities. Its dedication to making a positive impact is evident in its various initiatives, including the Empowering Migrants Expo.
The Empowering Migrants Expo
Scheduled for 4 August at Brisbane City Hall, the inaugural Empowering Migrants Expo is a landmark event that will feature over 30 indigenous and ethnic cultures. This family-friendly event aims to bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate Queensland’s diversity through art, music, dance, and handicrafts.
Performers from various nations will showcase their traditional culture, values, and history, highlighting the rich heritage of their homelands. The Expo will also include educational pop-ups, cultural dance performances, and migrants’ achievement awards, promoting cultural awareness and recognizing the contributions of diverse communities.
The Empowering Migrants Expo aims to enhance Brisbane’s social fabric by recognizing the social and economic contributions of migrants and refugees. It fosters inclusive communities by organizing internationally reputed events that bring diverse groups together, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment.
The Expo showcases Queensland’s rich cultural heritage through art, music, and dance, celebrating Brisbane’s diverse identity. It addresses social isolation and inequality by uniting ethnic and indigenous communities, promoting inclusivity and wellbeing.
The event also aims to improve opportunities for artists from diverse backgrounds, providing them with visibility and fostering equal opportunities. Lastly, it encourages cultural awareness and appreciation, educating the public about diverse traditions to enhance understanding and respect in the city.
The Empowering Migrants Expo is more than just a cultural event; it is a celebration of the myriad cultures that enrich Brisbane. By bridging these cultures, the Expo aims to foster understanding, respect, and unity among Brisbane’s diverse population. As the city continues to grow and evolve, events like this ensure that all residents feel valued and included, contributing to a vibrant and harmonious community.
