News release
July 24, 2006

Banana Forum tackles deeper conversations around who we are

A dynamic and lively gathering will throw a spotlight on the evolving identity of Chinese New Zealanders, the country's changing cultural-ethnic demographics and challenges all New Zealanders face in grappling with a new national identity.

Taking place on Saturday 12 August at AUT University, the Going Bananas: Multiple Identities Forum continues the work of the New Zealand Chinese Association (Auckland Branch) Inc. to embrace this country's diverse communities and promote strength in diversity.

“This Forum takes a more in depth look at who we are as New Zealanders and where we’re heading as a multicultural nation. It’s time to celebrate not only our points of connection, but also our points of difference,” says NZCA National President and Forum Chairperson, Kai Luey.

“Conversations around our shifting cultural and ethnic makeup, which is already happening now, will form the thrust of the Forum. We are very excited by these changes and believe the best time to start tackling the more difficult issues is now.

“This country has a long way to go in addressing diversity issues, but this event provides an excellent platform and solid first step. We especially encourage young leaders of all ethnicities to attend as the building of a new New Zealand rests in their hands.

“Going Bananas is community driven leadership initiative that celebrates a new rhythm, and the NZCA is proud to be leading the dialogue in this area,” he adds.

A highlight of the Forum will be the contributions of burgeoning Kiwi Chinese creative voices that are contributing to this country’s cultural-creative life. Talent ranges from filmmakers and architects to visual artists, fashion designers and musicians.

Interested attendees are encouraged to register without delay.

The Going Bananas: Multiple Identities Forum 2006 is organised by the New Zealand Chinese Association (Auckland Branch) Inc.

The Forum sponsors are the Chinese Poll Tax Heritage Trust, The New Zealand Herald, MessageMedia, RED_i, The Office of Ethnic Affairs, Auckland City, The University of Auckland, Cultural Signals, Public Address and AUT University.

DATE: Saturday 12 August, 2006

VENUE: AUT University, Lecture Theatre WA220
55 Wellesley Street, Auckland CBD

REGISTRATION: see online for fees

URL: www.goingbananas.org.nz

KEY ISSUES OF THE FORUM

- Establishing our identity - from childhood to adolescence

- Multiple identities - more complex than you think

- Chinese New Zealanders - our sense of belonging in the NZ context

- Reel Asians - seeing ourselves on screen

- Creative New Zealand Chinese - Our burgeoning cultural-creative voices

- Expressions of fusion

- And a few more surprises

- Keynote Address – Dr. Robyn Dixon, University of Auckland. “Identity Formation from Early Childhood to Adolescence”

- Keynote Address – Dr. James Liu, Victoria University of Wellington “Chinese New Zealanders – our sense of belonging in the NZ context”.

ENDS

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