Celebrating Unity and Diversity this Harmony Week

Harmony, harmonia, 融洽, armonía, harmonie – The Pyjama Foundation are proud to celebrate Harmony Week.

Did you know, nearly half (49 per cent) of Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent who was?

Today (March 21), officially marks the start of Harmony Week (March 21 – 27) for 2022.

Harmony Week is all about celebrating diversity, fostering inclusiveness, encouraging a sense of belonging and showing respect to all Australians.

Since the celebrations induction in 1999, there have been more than 80,000 Harmony Week events across Australia.

Fun facts:

  • Harmony Week was originally an Australian celebration but is now celebrated all over the world
  • Orange is the colour that represents Harmony Week because it symbolises social communication and meaningful conversations
  • More than 70 Indigenous languages are spoken in Australia
  • Since 1945, more than 7.5 million people have migrated to Australia

How to get involved this Harmony Week:

There are lots of ways you can get involved this Harmony Week!

  • Make some noise: Share your support this week by making some noise! This can be as simple as having a conversation with a family member/ friend or going along to an event. Another way you can make some noise is by sharing some Harmony Week resources on your social media (tip: you can even share this blog)
  • Share your culture: There are lots of ways you can showcase your culture this Harmony Week including through food, clothing, stories, music, art and dance
  • Learn more: Dive into understanding and appreciating multiculturalism this Harmony Week through educational resources. We have some wonderful cultural resources for children available online

BOOKS THAT INSPIRE:

There are many books available that can teach children about diversity and multiculturalism. Here are some of our favourites:

1. ALL ARE WELCOME 

By: Alexandra Penfold

This Number 1 New York Times bestselling picture book follows a group of children through their school day. All Are Welcome is a written celebration of diversity and inclusion.

“No matter how you start your day, What you wear when you play, Or if you come from far away, All are welcome here.”

2. LOVE MAKES A FAMILY

By: Sophie Beer

This vibrant book reflects and celebrates that love makes a family.

“Whether you have two mums, two dads, one parent, or one of each, there’s one thing that makes a family a family… and that’s love.”

3. WHOEVER YOU ARE 

By: Mem Fox

This beautifully illustrated book explores many cultures and focuses on the essential things that connect us.

“Little one, whoever you are, wherever you are, there are little ones just like you, all over the world.”

4. ROOM ON OUR ROCK

By: Kate Temple and Jol Temple

There are two sides to every story. This special and creatively designed book inspires empathy and truth. The book follows one story that can be read two different ways.

“Make our rock your home.”

5. I’M AUSTRALIAN TOO

By: Mem Fox

A beautiful book celebrating Australia’s incredible multicultural heritage.

“Many people from many places have come across the seas, to make Australia their home.”

On behalf of The Pyjama Foundation team, we wish you a wonderful Harmony Week 2022.