Ethnic Affairs Conference to discuss critical issues about ethnic diversity 1 & 2 April, Auckland

Critical issues about New Zealand's growing ethnic diversity will be discussed at a national conference on ethnic affairs in April.

The Office of Ethnic Affairs has invited key speakers to take stock of New Zealand's journey as a diverse nation and consider what this means for the country’s future.

The Minister for Ethnic Affairs, Hon Hekia Parata, will open the conference and will outline the Government’s priorities in relation to ethnic communities.

''I’m looking forward to sharing ideas on how to further improve the social, cultural, and economic well-being of ethnic communities in New Zealand,” Ms Parata says.

Addressing key international trends, including the people’s protests in the Middle East, will be the US Special Representative for Muslim Communities, Farah Pandith.

Ms Pandith, who reports to US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, travels the world staying in touch with community groups and individuals.

She says the number one issue for Muslim youth is figuring out their identity – how to be modern and Muslim.

The Director of the Office of Ethnic Affairs, Mervin Singham, says “the conference will provide invigorating discussion. In addition it will also offer practical support and encouragement to ethnic communities.”

Mr Singham says “for example, the debate on “Multiculturalism in New Zealand: is it a myth or reality?” will help to prepare ethnic people’s participation in the constitutional debate that the Government has announced. The session on “Enterprising Synergies” in which welfare, immigration and community funding organisations will contribute, will help ethnic organisations to be innovative and self-sustaining.”

He says the Office of Ethnic Affairs is providing an opportunity for people to boost their knowledge and engagement regarding issues that are relevant to New Zealand’s ethnic diversity. “The inspirational programme is taking place all under one-roof, giving delegates a value-for-money opportunity to access an intense array of ideas.”

The conference is being organised by the Office of Ethnic Affairs, at Alexandra Park, Auckland 1 & 2 April 2011. It is free and open to the public.

See the full programme at www.ethnicaffairs.govt.nz

ENDS