Question

Choose one culture represented in Australian society (for example Japanese, Italian, Greek or Indian) and describe examples of at least five activities that children might participate in to explore the richness that diversity contributes to society. Be specific.

Answer 1

Ans) Develop an awareness of cultural diversity
Australia is a tolerant and inclusive society, a nation built by people from many different
backgrounds. Cultural diversity has become a touchstone of its national identity. As Australia
entered the 20th century, its population consisted of a relatively small number of Indigenous peoples and an overwhelming majority of Europeans, most of whose origins lay in the British Isles. In 2004,
- Australia’s population has grown to more than 20 million, it is home to people from more than 200 countries and it has an enviable international reputation for its diversity and tolerance.
- Underpinning modern Australian society is a commitment to cultural diversity. Australia accepts and respects the right of all Australians to express and share their individual cultural heritage within an overriding commitment to Australia’s democratic foundations and to English as the national language.

• This commitment comprises the following principles:
 Cultural respect, which gives all Australians-subject to the law-the right to express their own
culture and beliefs and obliges them to accept the right of others to do the same
 Social equity, which entitles all Australians to equality of treatment and opportunity so that they
can contribute to the life of the nation free from discrimination, including on the grounds of
race, culture, religion, language, location, gender or place of birth
 Productive diversity, which maximises the significant cultural, social and economic dividends arising from its plurality. (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Australia Now)
Although it might be human nature to notice what is different about people, it is important for us to also notice what is similar and familiar about people. If we can notice these similarities, it makes connecting and relating to people much easier and once we have started connecting we are more able to respect and understand the differences.
An analogy would be a string of beads. All the beads come from different sources (such as wood, plastic, glass, paper), are different sizes and colours, have different patterns on them and have been through different journeys to get to the end point. Although the beads are different, the string that runs through them is the same.