We are deeply concerned about the escalating conflict in Gaza and Israel, and we acknowledge that it is causing immense suffering for many here in Victoria.
Our hearts break for everyone affected by this humanitarian crisis, both at home and abroad, and our thoughts are with all those who are hurting and grieving.
ECCV remains committed to supporting our multicultural and multifaith communities across the state to come together in unity and understanding. During these difficult times, it is imperative that we keep up our efforts to foster respectful dialogue, and protect the democratic right to peaceful protest.
We cannot allow the unfolding events to fracture the social cohesion and harmony that is one of Victoria’s greatest strengths. It is essential that we all do our part to nurture our shared values of respect, dignity and inclusion. Read our full statement on the conflict here.
The past several weeks have also been dark and mournful for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities around Australia. While we are deeply disappointed by the outcome of the Voice referendum, we recognise the strength and resilience of First Nations communities, and are grateful for the generosity and courage of the First Nations Elders and leaders we were privileged to work alongside.
ECCV will continue to strengthen partnership and dialogue between First Nations communities and multicultural communities, and we look forward to continuing to work with First Nations communities and government to ensure a brighter future for all Victorians.
Eddie Micallef, Chairperson
Highlights
INVITING | ECCV Annual General Meeting 2023 | Thursday 30 November 2023
ECCV's 2023 Annual General Meeting will be held on the evening and we are pleased to host our AGM at the Maltese Community Council of Victoria in Parkville once again, and we warmly invite our members, friends and supporters to attend. We look forward to sharing more information soon, including details about our keynote speaker.
CALLING | Nominate for ECCV Board Director vacancies
Nominations for the 2023-25 ECCV Board of Directors are now open, with elections taking place at the AGM. Board members serve two-year terms and are responsible for overseeing the governance of ECCV. Eligible candidates are invited to submit their nomination by 2 November. Please note only current financial Ordinary Members can nominate and vote at the election.
ADVISING | Multicultural Framework Review submission
ECCV has made a submission to the federal government's Multicultural Framework Review, which is looking at how Australia's policies, institutions and laws can better meet the needs of migrant and refugee communities. Informed by consultations with our key stakeholders and members, the submission makes 26 recommendations across areas such as employment, health and citizenship.
WORKSHOPPING | Mental health and intersectionality
ECCV is delivering capacity-building workshops for mental health practitioners to help participants work not only more effectively but in a respectful and culturally responsive way. The workshops explore the importance of lived experience and how to integrate an intersectional, lived experience lens into mental health practice.
- To find out more, email Surmeli Yesilyurt syesilyurt@eccv.org.au, ECCV's Partnerships and Engagement Lead.
GIVING | Feedback for Pre-Budget Submission 2024-25
ECCV is preparing our Pre-Budget Submission, and invite feedback from our members and stakeholders about what the priority areas and key challenges are for migrant and refugee communities across the state in the year ahead.
- Send your ideas and insights via email to James Houghton jhoughton@eccv.org.au, Senior Policy Adviser.
- Read our Pre-Budget Submission from last year.
REPORTING | ECCV presentation at Embolden 2023
ECCV was pleased to take part in the Embolden National Conference 2023, held in Daylesford earlier this month. The conference brought together service providers, researchers, policymakers, community leaders and seniors of diverse backgrounds to look at how to combat ageism and build respect for older people. ECCV's presentation explored the links between Islam and ageing.
Opportunities and Resources
HEARING | Your say: improving reporting pathways for racism
Have your say on how to better support Victorians who experience racism. We invite you to take a short survey for a research project led by Victoria University in partnership with ECCV and the Islamic Council of Victoria, with funding from VicHealth. The project will inform recommendations on how to improve reporting pathways and support services for people who experience racism.
PUBLISHING | New Golden Years eMagazine out now
The latest edition of Golden Years, ECCV's eMagazine for seniors from migrant and refugee backgrounds as well as the multicultural aged care sector, is out now. Featured in the Spring issue are stories exploring Australia's first club supporting Nigerian seniors, a Melbourne program helping aged care residents overcome language barriers and the importance of intersectionality in aged care.
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Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)
Address: Suite 101, 398 Sydney Road, Coburg Vic 3058
Tel: (03) 9354 9555