The City of Darwin is gearing up to celebrate Harmony Day, inviting parents, carers, and children to a vibrant event at the Malak Community Centre on Thursday, March 20, 2025. As part of Harmony Week, which promotes respect, diversity, and community spirit, this special gathering will run from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis expressed enthusiasm for the occasion, stating, "We are very proud that people from more than 60 nationalities and 70 different ethnic backgrounds call Darwin home, making us one of the most multicultural cities in Australia." He emphasized that the Harmony Day celebration offers a wonderful opportunity to commemorate the cultural richness of Darwin.
The festivities promise a colorful array of activities, designed to engage attendees of all ages. Participants can look forward to enjoyable experiences such as flower weaving, an African drumming workshop, and a special didgeridoo performance. Additionally, arts and crafts activities along with a charming performance by the Baby Ballerinas will round out the day’s offerings. The City of Darwin encourages everyone to don orange clothing or traditional garments, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
Meanwhile, across the seas, the Office of the Governor of the Western Province in Sri Lanka is set to host "Salam Ramadan" from March 21st to 23rd, 2025, at the Green Path in Colombo. With gates opening at 5:00 PM each day, this event aims to strengthen the bonds of unity among diverse communities, coinciding with the spirit of Ramadan.
The Salam Ramadan celebration marks a noteworthy moment in Sri Lankan history, as it brings together the country's four Muslim denominations – Moor, Memon, Malay, and Dawoodi Bohra – for the first time. The event will showcase an impressive spectacle of culinary delights through more than 50 food stalls, enabling attendees to taste a variety of dishes hailing from different regions of the Muslim community.
This family-friendly affair promises engaging entertainment and educational experiences. Prayer facilities for Muslim attendees will be available at the venue. Additionally, the picturesque Vihara Maha Devi Park, adjacent to the Green Path, is set to serve as a space for breaking fast at sunset. Visitors can also explore the CIS Harmony Center, which features a walkthrough of Islamic faith and culture, along with an interactive question-and-answer session.
Guests will find ample opportunities to learn about traditional attire at the Traditional Headdress Corner and can even have their names beautifully inscribed in Arabic script at the Calligraphy Corner. The event fosters a warm environment where people of all backgrounds can come together to celebrate the joy and hospitality inherent in the spirit of Ramadan.
Both the Harmony Day event in Darwin and the Salam Ramadan celebration in Colombo serve as significant examples of how communities can unite in diversity. They invite not just participation but also a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultural identities that make our societies vibrant.
Attendees in Darwin can engage in hands-on activities that foster understanding and respect for different cultures, while participants in Colombo will be treated to a culinary journey that emphasizes community togetherness and shared experiences. Ultimately, these events champion mutual respect, belonging, and embrace the true spirit of what it means to be part of a diverse society.
As the dates draw near, both the City of Darwin and the Office of the Governor of the Western Province invite everyone to immerse themselves in these festivities, continuing the tradition of celebrating unity through diversity. Well-wishers and families alike are encouraged to attend, share in the warmth of community, and create lasting memories.
