Latest News

On Sunday 31 May 2015, members of diverse faith and spiritual backgrounds gathered at the home of the Jewish Christian Muslim Association (JCMA) to explore the importance of maintaining social cohesion in Australia.

The event was hosted in partnership with the 3 major monotheistic peak bodies in Victoria; Islamic Council of Victoria, Victorian Council of Churches and the Jewish Community Council of Victoria.

The forum was well attended with more than 80 participants comprising of the Muslim, Jewish and Christian communities, alongside representatives from the AFL multicultural program, Victoria Police, local government, and various dignitaries including the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Hon. Robin Scott, JCMA Patron Sir James Gobbo and the Mayor for the City of Yarra, Cr Phillip Vlahogiannis.

The keynote speech was delivered by Emeritus Prof. Gary Bouma a professor of Sociology at Monash University. Prof Bouma highlighted the differences between Australia and the rest of the world making the case that Australia’s multiculturalism was its strength and that  it needed to be championed and embraced not just tolerated. This paved the way for discussion around 3 keys aspects of social cohesion: What we were doing well to encourage and promote multiculturalism; Some of the gaps and problems in our policies and programs; Possible Solutions and how to move forward.

The discussions were very productive and positive. The outcomes of this forum will be used for further informed discussions and research in the area of social cohesion and harmony.

The ICV was well represented with members of the interfaith committee in attendance along with the ICV vice president Bayram Aktpe and ICV treasurer and executive charged with the interfaith portfolio Mohamed Mohideen who said, “It was great to see members from the 3 Abrahamic faiths attend and discuss common issues and problems that affect all communities. The solidarity and support shown to each other during the deliberations was most welcome. I believe the friendships created at these intimate round table discussions will go a long way in breaking down barriers and building social cohesion in the wider Australian community.“

Report by Islamic Council of Victoria