Media Release

16 March 2012

International food event to celebrate Race Relations Day 2012

Whangarei is celebrating Race Relations Day with an international Food Event starting at 5pm on Saturday 24 March, at Whangarei Intermediate School – admission is free.

This international evening coincides with the Baha’i New Year and will feature stalls from different ethnic and community groups selling food. Whangarei District Council is supporting this colorful event as part of the Endless Summer Festival and to celebrate the cultural diversity of the District.

Countries represented include Pacific Islands, India, Japan, Mauritius, Vietnam and Persia and the night will feature multi-ethnic food stalls from English Language Partners, Whangarei Migrant Centre and WINGS.

“It is a unique way of celebrating cultural diversity in Whangarei, as food is a very important part of all cultures,” says Baha’i spokesperson, Arasteh Hancock.

“There will also be dance, music, arts and crafts and presentations throughout the evening. The theme this year is: A fair go for all.”

This is the fourth year that Race Relations Day has been held as a public event in Whangarei. The cooperation of various community groups in partnership with the local Baha’i community makes this wonderful event possible.

The evening is organised by a committee from the Baha’i community, Settlement Support (supported by Whangarei District Council), English Language Partners, Whangarei Migrant Centre, and WINGS.

“It will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase different cultures and enjoy ethnic food and entertainment,” says Baha’i spokesperson, Arasteh Hancock.

“Race Relations Day is a time to reflect on our culturally diverse nation. Many community groups, councils, schools, workplaces, marae and places of worship around the country are encouraged to celebrate the value of cultural diversity and the need to support harmonious race relations.”

Each year 21 March is observed around the world as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. 21st March recalls the tragic loss of life at Sharpeville in South Africa in 1960, and is dedicated by the United Nations to the achievement of the goals of the Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. New Zealand signed the Convention on 25 October 1966 and ratified it on 22 November 1972.

ENDS

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