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MELB | ASRC | CATERING | From The Kitchen | Monday 18–Sunday 24 March 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

We’re excited to send this ASRC Catering Update as we enter our busiest time of the year. So far, our social enterprise has been busy and fruitful, continuing to grow with a focus on delivering delicious food while driving positive social impact.

The team is ready and focused for a busy end of the year, helping to bring your end-of-year functions to life. We look forward to welcoming your orders throughout the holiday season as we finish the year off strongly.

GIFTING | For That Time of the Year Again

With the festive season almost upon us, it’s time to start thinking about what to get the office,workplace team or loyal clients to your business. 

ASRC Catering is offering 3 thoughtful gift boxes this year, perfect to treat staff or colleagues with. Each box contains exclusive ASRC Catering products so that you can bring a taste of global flavour into the kitchen.

With 100% of proceeds going directly to support and empower refugees and people seeking asylum, it really is a gift that does good.
  • Pre-order your Corporate Gift Box today. Email us at catering@asrc.org.au or call us (03) 9939 6320
  • View gift boxes

SPOTLIGHTING | The Humans Behind Your Favourite Food

An important goal for the year has been to champion the stories of our amazing staff with lived experience, highlighting their cultural connections to food, and celebrating their achievements. 

We continue to witness our people shine both in and out of the kitchen, challenging themselves and taking on new responsibilities

CAMPAIGNING | On the Move with Kinetic

Thanks to the ASRC’s corporate partnership with Kinetic, ASRC Catering has recently embarked on an exciting new bus and billboard advertising campaign. Thanks to the bright and warm smiles of Sam and Manel, we’ll be shining a light on our social enterprises with digital billboards around Richmond, Fitzroy and Moonee Ponds.

The ASRC is enjoying its second year of partnership with Kinetic, which allows us to utilise digital and print advertising through JC Decaux, giving us visibility all across Melbourne.

Having access to such prominent advertising helps ASRC Catering continue to build its brand awareness, reach new customers and tell the important stories of our staff with lived experience.

Keep your eyes peeled for our ASRC Catering cooks, Sam and Manel around Melbourne - we’d love to see or hear about any bus or billboard sightings.

SITTING | with Kon over a coffee at Journey’s Café

Want to learn more about Journeys Café? Join Kon Karapanagiotidis, CEO and Founder of the ASRC, and Flor Sedighi, Head of Refugee Businesses, as they sit down and chat about the importance of our partnership with the University of Melbourne, the power of social enterprises and the delicious food offerings available at Journeys Café.

About ASRC

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is an independent not for profit whose programs support and empower over 7,000 people seeking asylum each year to maximise their physical, mental and social wellbeing. As a movement we mobilise and unites communities to creating social and policy change for people seeking asylum and refugees in Australia.

ADVISING | Holiday Trading

A reminder that ASRC Catering and Journeys Café will be closed over the holiday period.
  • Our Fitzroy kitchen will close its doors on Friday 20 December 2024 and reopen on Wednesday 8 January 2025.
  • You may still place Online Orders for Catering during these closure dates
  • Journeys Café Parkville’s last day of trade will be Thursday 28 November 2024, reopening Monday 3 March 2025.
  • Journeys Café Southbank will trade until Thursday 19 December 2024 and be back to serve customers on Monday 13 January 2025.
Until then, bon appétit!

Kind regards,
ASRC Catering Team

MORE:

ASRC Catering
The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC)
Address: 214–218 Nicholson Street, Footscray VIC 3011
Tel:  +61 3 9939 6320

The ASRC acknowledges that we meet and work on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation, and pays respects to their elders; past, present and emerging.

CoPP | S2b | ADVISING | What's On | October-November 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

KICKING | Back with a Cup of Joe

There is almost a day to celebrate everything in 2024 so why not Melbourne's favourite brew?

International Coffee Day is a global celebration of coffee's journey from the farm to your local shop - an opportunity to honour the women and men who grow and harvest the coffee we love.

What happens on International Coffee Day? It's simple really, enjoy a cup of coffee (or two). Whats new? But it is also a perfect day to bring awareness to fair trade coffee. 

Space2b supports new migrants and refugees and we are proud to support Genet, who has started a small business offering freshly roasted organic Ethiopian Arabica beans and ground coffee which supports small family growers in Ethiopia. Genet's Kaffa Goat organic coffee is available from Space2b from $19.95. Happy International Coffee Day!

ENGAGING | Preschool Storytime

Space2b in partnership with City of Port Phillip are hosting an enriching and fun-filled story-time that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in:
Hindi   |   Arabic   |   Mandarin |   Amharic

Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
Arabic Preschool Storytime | Wednesday 23 October 2024 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Arabic.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library
  • Cost: Free
 
Hindi Preschool Storytime | Monday 28 October 2024 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Hindi.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: St Kilda Library
  • Cost: Free

Mandarin Preschool Storytime | Tuesday 5 November 2024 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Mandarin.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: Port Melbourne Library
  • Cost: Free

Amharic Preschool Storytime | Wednesday 6 November 2024 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Amharic.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library
  • Cost: Free

EXHIBITING | Layers of Happiness | An Exhibition Sabrina Goria | Tuesday 1 October-Saturday 2 November 2024

Layers of Happiness is a reflection of Sabrina Goria’s journey – a fusion of colours, textures, and emotions that tell the story of her transformation. Her work is an exploration of freedom, joy, and discovery, with each layer revealing a new dimension of her artistic vision. 

Having returned to Melbourne with a renewed sense of purpose, Sabrina is excited to share her evolving journey through art, continuing to explore the depths of her creativity and invite viewers into her vibrant world.

 Upcoming Workshops 

Diwali Flower Garland Workshop | Saturday 26 October 2024 | 10.30am-12.30pm

Join us in celebrating and learning about Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. This colourful and nature inspired workshop will teach your how to make fresh flower garlands, a cultural practice that has been passed down for centuries, with Sujata, originally from Mumbai, India. **FREE homemade spiced chai included
  • Where: Space2b Social Design - 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: $75
  • Bookings: online via ClassBento

The Art of Perfumery Workshop | Saturday 9 November 2024 | 11am-1pm

Join this workshop with Adla from The Perfume Workshop to learn about the art of perfumery by discovering your own scent and blending your perfume. As a special Space2b discount, participants will recieve a FREE body oil and personalised bottle of pure perfume to take home.
  • Where: Space2b Social Design - 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: $150
  • Bookings: online via ClassBento

Opening  Hours

Space2B Shop
Tues - Fri 10am-5pm
Sat 10am-2pm
 
Flavours of Syria Cafe
Thursday-Friday 10am-2pm

Together we make a difference


MORE:
Space2b Social Design (S2b)
Address: 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda, Melbourne Vic 3182
Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

Space2b acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and the diverse nature of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia. We pay respect to the Elders, past, present and future, and celebrate their stories, culture and traditions.

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 16 October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

I hope this message finds you well. As we prepare for upcoming cultural celebrations, I want to reflect on the significance of religious and cultural events we have recently observed, including the Jewish community’s High Holidays, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and the Mawlid al-Nabi, as well as the upcoming Diwali festival which is a five-day celebration, celebrated across many South Asian communities. 

These occasions are integral to Victoria’s cultural calendar, fostering community togetherness and contributing to our state’s economic prosperity. They remind us of the strength we draw from celebrating our rich and diverse traditions.

At the Victorian Multicultural Commission, we have been working with Deakin University and community partners on research which looks at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of public funding allocation for service providers who service diverse communities including migrant and refugee communities. It will be launched in late November. Stay tuned!

I’d also like to recognise the vital role of multicultural and ethnic media in our community, particularly in providing much needed information on programs, services and providing opportunities for civic engagement in a range of issues affecting our way of life, legislations and policy directions. Just as importantly, multicultural and ethnic media plays a role in keeping us informed and in that process reducing misinformation and disinformation. The VMC has been collaborating with the Melbourne Press Club (MPC) and Independent Multicultural Media Inc. (IMMA) to strengthen this sector and in keeping communities informed and have the knowledge to participate and engage fully and meaningfully. On this, don’t forget to have your say about the age limit on social media by completing the survey.

Lastly, as we approach local government elections, I want to acknowledge the diversity of the candidates who are taking an active part in the democratic process of our state and nation. I am pleased to see that many of the candidates have been leading and supporting diverse communities for many years, who bring their lived experience and professional expertise to the local government settings. And I am pleased to say that I have the opportunity to work with many of them in this role as Chairperson of the VMC on various projects and initiatives at different times. The dedication of these individuals is commendable, and I wish all candidates the very best in the upcoming elections.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive Victoria.
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
 

 News and Events 

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural media grants | applications open until 8 November 2024

The Victorian Government is supporting multicultural media organisations to continue their critical role reflecting the diverse voices, stories and experiences of Victorian communities and providing access to essential information.

Grants of up to $25,000 will be available through the 2024-25 Multicultural Media Grants program to support multicultural media organisations across the state. 

The grants will help multicultural media organisations with the cost of production and publication, equipment upgrades, and training and development for volunteers and staff.  
 

VIC | GOV | CALLING | Members for Ministerial youth advisory group

Expressions of interest are now open to young people aged 15 to 25 years with experience living away from their families in the Victorian care system, including foster, kinship, permanent, and residential care to give advice on:
  • Different experiences young people can have living in child protection and care.
  • What works well and how to improve child protection and care services for young people in Victoria.
The Ministerial Youth Advisory Group (MYAG) will meet with the Hon. Lizzie Blandthorn, the Minister for Children, 4 times per year.
 

VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: age limits on social media | submissions close 5pm Friday 1 November 2024

The Victorian Government wants parents, teachers and young people to share their experiences with social media through an online survey before Friday 1 November.

You can have a say on national laws that will be developed to help protect the mental health and social development of young Australians and reduce the risk of online harm. Victorians can provide feedback individually, or as a group by hosting a self-guided discussion using the online guide on the Engage Victoria platform.

The consultation will consider the positive and negative impacts of social media on young people’s lives and ensure the voices of Victorians are represented in the reforms. The findings will also be used to develop a new resource for schools to keep young people safe online – Safe Socials

AUST | SFRI | LAUNCHING | 2024 Scanlon mapping social cohesion report | Tuesday 19 November 2024 | 8.30am-12noon

Join the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) for the launch of the 2024 Mapping Social Cohesion Report, which provides a comprehensive study of attitudes towards life in Australia.

Now in its seventeenth year, this annual report offers crucial insights into how Australians view and experience social cohesion, focusing on key issues including national identity, immigration, financial satisfaction, and trust in government.

The event will feature a detailed presentation of the report’s key findings by report author Dr. James O'Donnell (Australian National University), followed by a Q&A session facilitated by Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute.

After morning tea, a collaborative workshop introduced by Emeritus Professor Andrew Markus AO (Monash University) will provide attendees with the opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities facing Australia in a rapidly changing social and economic landscape.

For further inquiries, please contact Celia Tran at info@scanloninstitute.org.au

CANTERBURY | SGG | GRANTING | Strathcona Girls Grammar scholarship | applications close Monday 11 November 2024

Strathcona Girls Grammar (SGG), 34 Scott St, Canterbury VIC 3126, is offering a full scholarship to a student in Year 7, 8, 9, or 10 commencing in 2025.
This scholarship aims to extend a Strathcona education to a girl from a limited financial background or challenging circumstances, reflecting the school’s legacy of inclusion, generosity, and empowerment.

For more information, contact the Registrar, Julie Drew, at Admissions@strathcona.vic.au.
 

MELB | VMC | RAISING | Funds, Awareness and Support for Project Us x VMC food drive | 13-14 December 2024 | 8am-5pm

The Project Us Foundation, in partnership with the VMC, is organising a food drive on 18 October and 13-14 December 2024 to provide fresh and nutritious food to those in need. This effort aims to alleviate hunger, enhance community well-being, and demonstrate how we can come together to support one another. 

Project Us Foundation is an Australian charity dedicated to providing fresh, culturally appropriate food to low-income and vulnerable communities.

Beyond food relief, the foundation focuses on empowering individuals through skill-building and community engagement, fostering long-term impact.
  • For more information and to participate please email engagement@vmc.vic.gov.au

VIC | VMC | ADVISING | Cyber security awareness month

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, and the VMC is encouraging everyone to review their passwords.

Make your passwords long and unique. Longer is stronger.

Try making ‘passphrases.’ A passphrase is a password made up of 4 or more random words. They’re tricky for cybercriminals to crack, but easy for you to remember.

Examples:
glowering-armour-permanently-jackets
umbrella-spherical-thunder-lightbulb
magazine-bottle-alligators-escalator

VIC | CRT | HEARING | Your say: residential parks in Victoria | submissions close Friday 8 November 2024.

The Commissioner for Residential Tenancies (CRT) invites submissions regarding the experiences of residential park residents in Victoria. This initiative aims to inform the Victorian Government about issues affecting residential tenants.

Feedback is sought from park residents, local government, park operators, and support organisations about current conditions and improvements in the residential parks sector.

This Call for Submissions is part of a project by the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC), which includes information gathering from other jurisdictions and interviews with stakeholders.
  • Submit to: info@rentingcommissioner.vic.gov.au
    with subject: Residential Parks Project Submission
  • For more information, please contact the office on tel 1300 029 783 or visit website

VIC | PROV | GRANTING | Grants to celebrate Victorian history | applications close 11.59pm Monday 9 December 2024

The Victorian Government's Public Record Office Victoria (PROV) is supporting community groups to preserve Victoria’s rich history by showcasing historical records and collections.

Community groups such as historical societies, museums and schools are all encouraged to apply for grants to assist with funding for their historical projects, with up to $15,000 available per grant.

MORE:

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 1, 3 Treasury Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901

The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

AUST | GEIFN | VIDEOING | LGTBIQA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

AussieSTORY

Collected Video Stories of Identity, Connection and Belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.

As response to Voice Referendum 23, Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN) and I’m From Driftwood (IFD) aim to showcase diverse Australian views by sourcing and producing 8-10min 1st-Person Video Stories of LGTBIQA+ Folk from around Australia. 

Recordings will be hosted individually on IFD website for global audience and matched with 2 others on GEIFN website for local audience.

GEIFN’s Potential Top 5 Talking Points to offer insights, answers and views to question “What does Reconciliation look like to you?":
  1. What did the coming out process look like for you?
  2. When did being LGTIBQA+ teach you about your family, community and the world?
  3. How is your gift of being LGTIBQA+ been used in personal, professional or public life?
  4. Who is your message of reconciliation to?
  5. Why is your wish for Australia to take a place, position and play on a spherical global playing field?
As IFD's Australian content is 12 stories, all by cis-gender males, this project is preferencing Australian-residing LGBTQIA+ Women, First Nations, People of Colour/Migrants.

If you or someone you know fit the description and wish to be a part of this reconciliation
project, please contact Carey on 0438 371 488 or email carey@caro.com.au

Primary Collaborator

I’m From Driftwood (IFD) is delivered digitally through a cloud-based multi-channel platform to a broad-based audience developed over the past 15 years. Part of this conversation and active enthusiasts since the conception.

Quoting from IFD website:
The stories on I’m From Driftwood send a powerful message to LGBTQIA+ people everywhere: you exist, you matter, you belong.
 
IFD’s collection of more than 1,400 professionally-produced videos and user-submitted written oral histories are shared freely online – giving voice to and forging connections among often marginalized or silenced people, educating people about the joys and challenges, complexities and intersectionalities of LGBTQIA+ lives, and increasing empathy in IFD viewers.

Some IFD examples:


How to Reconcile

Language is an interesting thing. It can be used to educate, mystify, divide, harm or heal. English is a particularly interesting example.

The English language has 26 letters (written symbols) but it makes over 44 different sounds (syllables) and countless compound ideas (words). All relying on ‘learnt, practised or assumed knowledge' to correctly use, prevailing cognizance (ability to independently critically think), pronounce, know and then to respond.
 
To make things even more interesting, English is always changing, borrowing from many other languages with meanings that may change over time.

Let's look at the word "reconcile":
[reh’con’syle]
From late Middle English: from Old French reconcilier or Latin reconciliare, from Latin re- = back, concentrate, focus + conciliare = bring together.

verb
  1. restore friendly relations between. Ie, the monarch and the archbishop were publicly reconciled. Ie, they wanted to be reconciled with their father. 
    • settle (a quarrel). Ie, advice on how to reconcile the conflict. 
    • make or show to be compatible. Ie, the agreement had to be reconciled with the city's new international relations policy. 
    • someone accepting a disagreeable or unwelcome thing. Ie, the team was reconciled to the poor match result.
  2. make (one account) consistent with another, especially by allowing for transactions begun but not yet completed. Ie, it is not necessary to reconcile the cost accounts to the financial accounts.
And this is just 1 word. Languages are made of many words. Words connected by space(s) make sentences. Sentences connected by space(s) make paragraphs. Paragraphs connected by space(s) make narratives or stories. Stories connected by space(s) make story books. Story books connected by space(s) mark time and are called tradition. This is the process of transmission. Transmission can be verbal, physical, formless or in the space between.

In this case, collected video stories of identity, connection and belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.

MORE:

Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Join us with 'humanising the other' 

GEIFN is based in the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation. Respect is offered to past, present and future elders of all spiritual traditions. May we find together a generous way to accommodate those in need of refuge. Let us be cool, strive individually and together to overcome inequality, violence, disengagement, tragedy and injustice wherever it may be. Let us honour, savor and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully with less effort in our place called home.

AUST | GiveOUT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for GiveOUT Day | Thursday 17 October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

WELCOMING | GiveOUT Day on Thursday, 17 October 2024!

Here’s the deal: Most of the organisations participating are grassroots, run by passionate volunteers, and operating on shoestring budgets of less than $10,000 a year. These are the folks doing life-changing, life-affirming work for our rainbow communities, and they need your support now more than ever.

There are 110+ organisations that have asked for help.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes an impact. And your donation goes even further. You give $25, we make it $50! We’re doubling your power to make change!

Let’s make this day count and show up big for the LGBTQIA+ community. We’re all in this together! 

OFFERING | Heartfelt Thanks

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to: Thom (He/Him) - PrideAbility. AJ (They/Them) - Trans Pride. Australia. Maurice (He/Him) - Different Strokes Dragon Boat. Russ (He/Him) - ACON’s Love Project. Gian Carlo De Vera - (They/Them) - GiveOUT Day Ambassador. Jones Jones (They/Them) - Aurora Group Program Manager.

With immense gratitude to: Maggie Eudes (She/Her) @maggie_eudes (videographer) and Flick Smith (They/Them) @flickcine (animator)

CONTINUING | Standing with First Nations communities

This time last year, GiveOUT was proud to support a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice. We know that there is no substitute for the wisdom of lived experience when it comes to designing policies and programs.

We recognise the significant impact that the referendum process and result continues to have on First Nations communities.

Organisations at the intersection of First Nations and LGBTQIA+ communities are chronically underfunded. We must ensure these organisations have the resources they need to provide healing, support, and advocacy.

As we did in 2023, GiveOUT is offering First Nations-led participating organisations double the matched funding limit (i.e., up to $3,500 per organisation).

GiveOUT Day is proud to be supporting the below organisations working with Brotherboys, Sistergirls, and other LGBTQIA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

We commit to fighting and walking with First Nations communities towards reconciliation, self-determination, and justice.

Donate to these First Nations-led organisations

CELEBRATING | With us in-person on 17 October!

Take a short break from your work day and come show your support for rainbow communities! Registrations are a must, so don’t miss out! Join our special guests Louis Hanson, Aysha Buffet, Mon Schafter, Daddy Annie, Rachel Ball, Hank Paul, Jeremy Tang and Jain Moralee.

MEETING | Online your sector peers | Monday 14 October 2024 | 12-1pm

Calling all staff, volunteers and Board members from LGBTQIA+ organisations particpiating in GiveOUT Day!
Join this special virtual ‘Sector Meet and Greet’ using the interactive platform Remo and connect with peers working across the country. Plus hear from Jazz Money, GiveOUT Day Ambassador and queer Wiradjuri poet.

SPOTLIGHTING | Geographical Diversity

These jurisdictions often struggle to recieve the same access to funding and support compared to NSW and VIC, but have been leading the way when it comes to LGBTQIA+ rights!

Fun fact: These state and territories were the first jurisidction in Australia to do what???

TAS: First to introduce gender-optional birth certificate laws

ACT: First to legalise same-sex marriage!

SA: First to decriminalise homosexuality!

QLD: First to ban conversion therapy!

WA: First to grant full adoption rights to rainbow couples!

Unfortunately, Northern Territory organisations were unable to participate in GiveOUT Day this year due to capacity. You can donate directly via NTAHC and Top End Pride.

SUPPORTING | In Other Ways – activate your allyship as a fundraising champion!

We have just hit over 100 Fundraising Champions! These are epic individuals who help participating organisations DOUBLE their fundraising, by signing up for your very own Champion Fundraising profile. This means you receive a link to share with your networks, and raise funds for a cause close to your heart.

It takes only 5 minutes to LEVEL UP your allyship!
Huge thanks to our philanthropic partners, including the Sidney Myer Fund, Slingsby Foundation, Wyatt Trust, Fay Fuller Foundation, Reichstein Foundation, and Tripple, for making this possible.

MORE:

The GiveOUT Team (GiveOUT)

GiveOUT recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants and traditional custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our respects to all Elders past and present.

AUST | NBCF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Power of Pink Giving Day | Thursday 17 October 2024 | From 9am

[Edited extract from public address]

Our Power of Pink Giving Day is happening!

For 24 hours ONLY, starting at 9am on Thursday 17 October 2024, your donations will be doubled by our wonderful matching partners.

This means your power to change the future of breast cancer diagnoses will be multiplied.

For one day only, a gift of $50 becomes $100...a gift of $75 becomes $150, and a gift of $500 becomes a phenomenal $1000.

What is Power of Pink Giving Day?

The Power of Pink Giving Day is a day when amazing people \come together to empower critical, world-class research that gives real hope to people facing breast cancer.

Pink because it's a colour we often associate with breast cancer, and it's the colour of our amazing squad.

And power because of the strength and impact of our Pink Squad when we unite for our vision — a future with Zero Deaths from breast cancer.

It's an incredible 24 hours when YOU can help change the future of breast cancer diagnoses... by powering up your gift, and in turn, powering up breast cancer research.

I'm really excited about our Giving Day because I've seen the difference our community can make in just 24 hours.

 

Why donors are so important

We urgently need donors' help to raise more money for breast cancer research for one simple but powerful reason.

...because more people are dying from breast cancer than ever before.

And that's not OK with us.
  • Nine people die from breast cancer every day in Australia.
  • It's estimated 3,300 people in Australia will die from breast cancer this year.
  • And 58 people are diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
  • That's more than 21,000 in 2024 alone.

We know research is the answer.

Life-saving research has already achieved extraordinary breakthroughs. Since we began 30 years ago, committed people have helped reduce the death rate from breast cancer in Australia by over 40 percent.

Donors are one of the stars of our Giving Day, because it's determination and generosity that will help us achieve our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.

Last year, we saw just how powerful donors generosity is. Donors were a key part of the Pink Squad who smashed the fundraising target in our inaugural Power of Pink Giving Day. 
This year, we’re even more determined to make sure that no one has to die from breast cancer.
 
As well as Giving Day, here’s what can be done right now:
  1. Add Power of Pink Giving Day to your calendar.
    Add to your calendar
    Google Calendar | Microsoft Outlook | Office 365 | Yahoo! Calendar
  2. Tell others about this opportunity to change the future.
    Forward this email to friends and family so they can join the Pink Squad too!
  3. Be inspirational on social media.
    Use our posts on Facebook or Instagram to tag your friends or repost. You can inspire others to join in.
Like donors, I don't want anyone to die from breast cancer. And, like donors, I am determined to find the answers, so we reach our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer. The Power of Pink Giving Day means so much to me — and all the people donors help through research.

I’m excited about what we can achieve together!
Laura Edwards, Executive Director

MORE:

National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF)
Address: GPO Box 4126, Sydney NSW 2001 Australia
Tel: 1300 708 763

The National Breast Cancer Foundation would like to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and their continuing connection to the land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their cultures and their Elders, past, present and emerging. We will respectfully use the terms, First Nations and First Peoples, interchangeably to refer to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

GLEN EIRA | GECC | WORKSHOPPING | Thursday 7 November 2024 | 9.30-11.30am

[Edited extract from public address]

A two-hour training session involving small group activities and collaborative workshopping using case studies drawn from relevant experiences.

Glen Eira City Council is pleased to partner with not-for-profit organisation Courage to Care Victoria to deliver a two-hour Upstander Training for service providers and community organisations.

This is part of Council continued commitment to Together We Stand and our pledge to work together across our communities for Action against Racism and Discrimination.

Participants will:
  • Understand the value of ‘Upstander’ behaviour and the obstacles to action.
  • Develop practical, effective, and safe strategies for ‘Upstander’ responses.
  • Gain insight through the discrimination cascade into how unacceptable behaviours are normalised.
  • Consider an ‘Upstander’ support framework with a view to supporting positive culture change in the workplace.
The purpose of the Upstander training is to transform bystander behaviour to Upstander action. 
  • Where: Caulfield Cup Room – Level One, Glen Eira Council Town Hall, Corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: reserve your seat via email multicultural@gleneira.vic.gov.au by Thursday 31 October 2024.

MORE:

Glen Eira City Council
Address: PO Box 42, Caulfield South 3162 

The City of Glen Eira acknowledges the Boon Wurrung/Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation as Traditional Owners and Custodians. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present. 

CUIN | UPDATING | Diversity Atlas Shaping Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and more | October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

Taking action, make a difference in diversity!

September was a busy month for Diversity Atlas! From our participation in a range of events across Australia and the UK, we’ve shared insights and broadened discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) globally. 

We’re also excited to announce that Melbourne City Mission (MCM) has been certified as our first Diversity Data Leaders, highlighting their commitment to cultural diversity through data-driven strategies. 

As we step into a new month, we look to expand our impact in Asia Pacific, with upcoming engagements in Malaysia and Australia, continuing our mission to drive cross-cultural understanding and DEI excellence.
   

 News and Announcements 

CERTIFYING | Our First Diversity Data Leader – Melbourne City Mission (MCM)

The  Global Diversity Data Leaders Certification is  a groundbreaking step in DEI 2.0. This certification recognises organisations using Diversity Atlas’s holistic data insights to help them manage their diverse workforces with more skill and awareness. 
 
We are proud to announce that our very first certified organisation is  Melbourne City Mission (MCM).  This certification underscores their dedication to inclusivity, meaningful impact, and workplace wellbeing. 
   

 Upcoming Events 

PRESENTING | At Digital Gateway to SEA

Diversity Atlas will be participating in  this year's trade mission to Malaysia, organised by Global Victoria in partnership with Austrade.
   

PRESENTING | At APAC DEI Summit 2024

On a mission to rebalance humanity, we are proud to partner with LeadWomen Sdn Bhd as Summit Allies at their first APAC DEI Summit in Malaysia!
   

PRESENTING | At DEI Reframe Summit

We will be a part of this summit that focuses on enhancing the competencies and skills of stakeholders responsible for implementing DEI strategies. Stay tuned for more updates!

PRESENTING | At DEI Summit in Melbourne | 15 November 2024

Our CEO Peter Mousaferiadis recently attended the Diversity and Inclusion Summit in Perth, where he shared key insights on using data to drive inclusion. 

This Summit is coming to Melbourne for the first time on 15 November 2024, featuring Michael Walmsley as a keynote speaker. With engaging sessions like the Neurodiversity Panel and the Inclusion Innovation Showdown, it's set to be an impactful event. 

Don't miss out on an exclusive 15% discount— use code 15PARTNER and save over $100. Read on for more details and grab your tickets today!
   

 Past Events 

PRESENTING | At 17th Inclusive Museum Summit

Our EU Cultural Ambassador, Mario, presented the research paper for the 'Diversity in Museums as a Catalyst for Peace' project at the 17th International Conference on the Inclusive Museum, held in Vienna from 13 to 15 September 2024. 

He highlighted Diversity Atlas’s inclusive approach to analysing visitor diversity at the Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre and announced the project’s expansion to centres in Cape Town and Durban. This project is pioneering the use of Diversity Atlas and it's extensive Global Database of humanity to help museums better understand their audiences and foster inclusivity.
   

PRESENTING | At SIETAR Virtual Event

Multiculture: What does it mean for you? An exploration from the grassroots. Not from the top down, but from the bottom up this time.

Big Data LDN

Is big data clean data? Navigating diversity and inclusion through the big data and AI landscape

 More Announcements 

WELCOMING | Our Newest Team Member

Niraj Kataria is a seasoned C-level financial executive with 30+ years of experience in corporate America and startups, specialising in fundraising, financial management, and strategic planning. 

He worked at Gartner Group during its Initial Public Offering (IPO), and Moldflow (Australia) in preparation for a NASDAQ IPO. At HACE, he was instrumental in growing revenues over 80% during COVID. He previously served as Chairman of DiversityInc, driving growth from startup to USD10M. Niraj holds an MBA and BA in Accounting and Economics from the University of Bridgeport and has also taught in Houston's public schools. 
 
Niraj joins us as Vice President of Sales & Strategy, and as our first full-time staff  situated in Houston, Texas, USA. 
   

KNOWING | Your organisation better!

Start to look into your organisation´s diversity today.

HIGHLIGHTING | Cultural Event: World Food Day | 16 October 

World Food Day heightens public awareness of world food issues and strengthens solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. Beginning in 1979, World Food Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. The day is observed widely amongst organisations concerned with hunger, food security and the protection of agriculture.

MORE:

Cultural Infusion (CUIN)
Address: Suite 2, 273-277 Wellington Street, Collingwood, VIC 3066

Cultural Infusion respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation and pays respect to their Elders, past and present and future custodians In continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practises of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 2 October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

I hope this message finds you well. These are challenging times, globally and locally. Conflicts overseas are impacting communities at home are testing the high level of social cohesion which has long-defined Victoria. 

My thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by these conflicts. I extend my thanks and appreciation to the many community leaders, faith leaders and individuals who continue to provide much-needed support to affected communities. I acknowledge, especially, those who engage across multicultural and multifaith communities with such respect and patience. 

Thank you for coming together and working together – for taking care of one another, for the ongoing conversations we are having to find opportunities to collaborate, for reaching out and staying connected. 

I also extend a warm welcome and congratulations to Farah Farouque, the newly appointed CEO of the Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV). The ECCV has championed multiculturalism for 50 years. Farah brings with her a wealth of experience as an executive manager, policy analyst and advocate. We look forward to her leadership and the continued impact of the ECCV in fostering a more inclusive Victoria.

It is with sadness that I acknowledge the recent passing of Zulya Kamalova, CEO of Victoria’s iconic multicultural music organisation The Boite. Zulya’s dedication and contribution to multiculturalism have left a lasting legacy, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her and the communities she served.

In an important step towards strengthening community protections, the Department of Justice and Community Safety (DJCS) has released proposed anti-vilification reforms and is inviting feedback from communities. I encourage you to provide your comments or submissions by 5pm Friday 11 October 2024. Your feedback will help ensure that the proposed reforms reflect the needs and voices of our diverse communities.

This week, I had the privilege of attending Indiancare’s AGM, where the Recommendation Report for Project Maitri was launched. Project Maitri, which ran from July 2023 to August 2024, was developed to address family violence in South Asian communities using a systems-based, intersectional approach. The importance of this report cannot be overstated, as it outlines key strategies for better preventing, reducing and responding to family violence in these communities. I commend Indiancare for their leadership in this critical work, and I look forward to seeing the impact of the recommendations.

Thank you for your continued commitment to supporting one another and building a stronger, more inclusive community. Let us continue to stand united in the face of challenges, promoting peace, respect and understanding across all communities.

Warm regards,
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
 

 News and Events 

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Chinese community infrastructure fund | applications open until 2 December 2024

The Victorian Government is excited to announce a wonderful opportunity for Victoria’s Chinese communities. Through the newly launched Chinese Community Infrastructure Fund, grants of up to $400,000 are available for Chinese community organisations to upgrade, renovate, or build community infrastructure. 

The program aims to support Victoria's Chinese community organisations to have safe and secure places to celebrate and share their history and traditions, build connections, and thrive.
 

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Festivals and Events Program Round 2 | applications close at 3pm Friday 25 October 2024

The Victorian Government is providing Grants of up to $50,000 to support multicultural festivals and events. This initiative aims to empower community organisations to host cultural celebrations that allow Victorians to:
  • Celebrate and preserve their unique cultures and traditions
  • Foster participation from the wider Victorian community, promoting learning, understanding, and respect for diverse cultures
More than $1 million is available through the Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund, designed to assist multicultural organisations in delivering impactful events throughout regional Victoria.

Funding is available in three streams:
  • Small: up to $5,000
  • Medium: between $5,001 and $15,000
  • Large: between $15,001 and $50,000
Round 2 applications are now open and will close at 3pm Friday 25 October 2024.

MELB | BOITE | PRESENTING | Sonidos Flamencos | Friday 11 October 2024 | 7.30pm

The Boite is excited to invite you to the much anticipated Sonidos Flamencos, a vibrant and lively voice, guitar and dance ensemble that unites traditional flamenco forms with traces of contemporary influence. 
These artists share a combined experience that includes many years of working both the structures and principles of the form. 

The gravitas of song with the prowess of the flamenco guitar reciprocates an impetuous flow of rhythm integral to flamenco. 

The subtlety and complexity of this rhythm is matched by the visceral energy of the dance that claims the space with elegance and poise.

Register for an unforgettable evening of passion and artistry!
  • Where: Box Hill Community Arts Centre, 470 Station St, Box Hill
  • Cost: General Admission $30, Concession $20
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking

VIC | CDS | INVITING | Students to Participate

Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) is inviting primary school students to contribute to the “Message in a Bottle” installation at Scienceworks. Since November 2023, the scheme has recycled over 700 million containers and returned more than $70 million to Victorians.

To celebrate the scheme’s first anniversary, students can submit messages about the importance of recycling through a digital portal until 4 October. Primary Students can do their messages in their own language, if they wish to. Selected messages will be featured in the interactive installation, which will educate visitors about recycling and the circular economy.

Parents are encouraged to have their children participate, and educators can access classroom resources.

VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Young Victorians in Navigating Life

The Victorian Government is helping young Victorians navigate important aspects of life with an online platform that is fun to use and includes information about a range of topics.  

The platform, YouthNav has been closely developed with young people and those helping young people in their work

The platform helps young people understand, plan for and succeed in skills like getting a job, moving out of home, getting around, having their say and managing money.   

VIC | VMC | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Project Us x VMC food drive | Friday 18-Saturday 19 October 2024 | 8am-5pm

The Project Us Foundation, in partnership with the VMC, is organising a food drive on 18 October 2024 to provide fresh and nutritious food to those in need. This effort aims to alleviate hunger, enhance community well-being, and demonstrate how we can come together to support one another. 

Project Us Foundation is an Australian charity dedicated to providing fresh, culturally appropriate food to low-income and vulnerable communities.

Beyond food relief, the foundation focuses on empowering individuals through skill-building and community engagement, fostering long-term impact.
  • For more information and to participate please email engagement@vmc.vic.gov.au

VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Multicultural Health Workforce

The Victorian Government is supporting healthcare workers who cannot shave due to religious, cultural or medical reasons. Healthcare workers can now use the "Singh Thattha" technique in Victorian health services.

The technique involves using an elastic band to cover the beard to create a smooth surface, which is then tied to the top of the wearer’s head, with the respirator mask worn and the seal formed on the band.

Health services are encouraged to work closely with multicultural and multifaith workforce, including Sikh Victorians, to support the implementation of Singh Thattha.

VIC | TAC | CAMPAIGNING | Only Protected for a Moment

Travelling by motorcycle or scooter can be enjoyable. However, it's important to know how to protect yourself and any pillion passengers before you ride.

If you ride a motorcycle, you can increase your safety on the road by:
  • Wearing your protective clothing every time you ride. Buy the best gear you can afford and ensure your helmet is up to scratch.
  • Making yourself visible by wearing light-coloured clothing or reflective gear
  • Purchasing a motorcycle with ABS
  • Riding within the speed limit
  • Stay up to date with the latest gear and bikes by visiting the Spokes website and signing up for the Spokes newsletter.

VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | New Facility and Vehicles for Sikh Volunteers Australia

The Victorian Government is supporting individuals and families in need with a new kitchen facility and three new vehicles for not-for-profit organisation Sikh Volunteers Australia. 

Sikh Volunteers Australia is a volunteer-run organisation that provides free food for Victorians in need and supports communities in Victoria and nearby regions in times of crisis such as bushfires or floods.

In 2023 Sikh Volunteers Australia distributed more than 28,000 free meals from their vans, and they also provide free food, water and necessary items to a range of communities during disaster relief operations.

MORE:

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 1, 3 Treasury Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901

The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

GEIFN | MIXING | Media | October 2024

Best wishes for less Suffering, more Happiness with Good Health and Time to Enjoy it. Welcome to Assyrian calendar 6774.

Sharing a timely aspiration:
“Relations are like electric currents. Wrong connections will give you shocks throughout your life. But the right ones will light up your life and lighten the load.”
Attributed to Buddhism (since 483 BCE to present)

If having no reason to celebrate this month, here are 3 prepared earlier:

Please note information may contain misunderstandings, deliberate omissions and complete fabrications. And remember to watch out for the thing forgotten. Accept nothing blindly. Test for usefulness, if useful keep, adapt for personal circumstances or if unuseful discard. Be your own guiding light.

Read on intrepid Mixers, and let's see what is to discover this edition. Subscribers decide if anything is useful.


Topics

  1. Guest Sings
  2. Street Jives
  3. Wisdom Reconciles
  4. Media Writes
  5. TED Talks
  6. Music Challenges
  7. Acknowledgments


1. Guest Sings

Approx 5 min presentation

 

2. Street Jives

Approx 2 min presentation

 

3. Wisdom Reconciles

 

4. Media Writes

Approx 5 min reads

Intro
David Leser explores originality, resilience and compassion in "‘Such a weird kid’: Alone winner Gina Chick never did fit in – and that’s her strength” via The Sydney Morning Herald

Jane Rocca explores trials, tribulations and triumph in becoming "Virginia Trioli: ‘I had to go through a lot of life to be confident to write about me” via The Age

Neil Orford explores pain, suffering and grief when recounting "If you loved me, you wouldn’t leave me, Dad said. But I had no choice” via The Brisbane Times


Intra
Lenny Ann Low explores certainty, team sprit and focus with Leeanna Walsman who reflects "‘I look in the mirror and I see how old I am’” via The Sydney Morning Herald

Liam Mannix explores mind, vitality and presence in why "To treat an incurable illness, he quit science – and took up Qigong” via WA Today

Malcolm Knox explores separation, education and migration recounting how "My tearful farewell to my son cast new light on the foreign student ‘industry’” via The Sydney Morning Herald


Inter
Melissa Fyfe explores childhood, parenting and shared interests when recounting "‘I’m so glad he ignored me’: Alan Kohler on the advice son Chris didn’t take” via The Age

T L Swan explores difficulties, creativity and rediscovering passion when "My family was facing financial ruin. Then I discovered romance writing” via WA Today

Kerrie OBrien explores importance, earnest and being "Inside the ‘big, gay’ story the ballet has been scared to tell” via The Brisbane Times


Multi
Benjamin Law explores dicey topics Religion, Bodies and Money with Karl Kruszelnicki who asks "‘Why can’t we talk about the part between the knees and the belly button?’” via The Age

Gary Nunn explores identity, context and characterisation in "Please, stop condemning my nickname as ‘extremely derogatory’ on my behalf” via The Brisbane Times

Ben Pobjie explores identity, origin and storytelling "In Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey, comics go back where they came from” via The Sydney Morning Herald


All
Jenny Taitz explores balance, resilience and aspiration in "How to feel happier in one day, according to a therapist” via The Sydney Morning Herald

Lauren Ironmonger explores understanding, empathy and supportive environments when "No parent wants to think of their child as a bully. But what if they are?” via The Age

Kate Halfpenny explores solitude, recharge and reflection are some of the reasons how "An isolated beach shack has finally made me feel like myself again” via The Brisbane Times


Together
Tom Decent explores childhood, recovery and strength "After surviving a racially motivated machete attack, this Paralympian fell in love with table tennis” via The Age

Emily Chantiri explores opportunity, learning and application recounting how "Athan flunked his first job interview. But he got the best life lesson” via The Brisbane Times

Tim Elliott explores place, people and purpose "When two tradies in Antarctica had time off, they snapped pics like this” via WA Today


Nobly
Jessica Yu explores time, technology and gig economy in "This wild ride reminds us of the faceless people who bring us food” via The Age

Nick Bryant explores education, citizenry and peaceful transfer of power when "Defending our democracy: How a cranky uncle, Swedish inspo and ‘pre-bunking’ help out” via The Age

Nell Geraets explores ageing, contributing and sustaining when "Making friends later in life can be tough, but these women are bucking the trend” via The Sydney Morning Herald

  

5. TED Talks

5-20 min presentations

6. Music Challenges

Approx 30 min presentation + reflection times

If desired, a short selection of publicly available material on a chosen theme for personal reflection. 

For best results, sit comfortably with a straight back, have headphones in a shared space, after each clicked link, allow a little reflection with your personally-held view before clicking on the next link.

Get ready to Reflect!
Choose your playing level:
Be introduced at 1.
Be soothed at 2-4.
Be shocked at 5.
Be inspired at 6.
Fuller illumination 1-6.
You be the judge. Or not.

Cryptic Clue:
What is one way of viewing agency, bias, systems, interplay, timing and managing change?
        1. Inspire
        2. Perspire
        3. Collaborate
        4. Engage: Test for personal circumstances, if useful keep, if unuseful discard, if exceeds needs, share mindfully
        5. Endure: Adapt for present times without sacrificing intent
        6. Endear: (Inspiring Others To Tend the Flame) live/ demonstrate/ inspire/ teach experience with others
        This challenge's mission is admission, permission, remission & intermission.

        mission
        [mih’shen]
        From mid 16th century (denoting the sending of the Holy Spirit into the world): from Latin missio(n-), from mittere = send, let go, let pass, put.

        noun 
        1. an important assignment given to a person or group of people, typically involving travel abroad. Ie, a fact-finding mission abroad. 
          • a group of people sent on a mission. Ie, by then, the mission had journeyed over 3,500 kilometres. 
          • an organization or institution involved in a long-term assignment abroad. Ie, the head of the Australian mission. 
          • an operation carried out by military aircraft. Ie, a reconnaissance mission. 
          • an expedition into space. Ie, the science agency has approved a mission to investigate the atmosphere of Mars. 
        2. the vocation or calling of a religious organization, especially a Christian one, to go out into the world and spread its faith. Ie, the Christian mission. Ie, Gandhi's attitude to mission and conversion. 
          • a building or group of buildings used by a Christian mission. Ie, a tour of the missions on the East coast. 
        3. a strongly felt aim, ambition, or calling. Ie, their main mission in life has been to cut unemployment.

        admission
        [ad’mihj’shen]
        From late Middle English: from Latin admissio(n-), from the verb admittere, from ad- = to + mittere = send, let go, let pass, put.

        noun 
        1. a statement acknowledging the truth of something. Ie, an admission of guilt. Ie, a tacit admission that things had gone wrong. 
        2. the process or fact of entering or being allowed to enter a place or organization. Ie, the evening before their admission to hospital. Ie, the country's admission to the UN. 
          • the fee charged for entry to a public place. Ie, admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children. 
          • the number of people entering a place. Ie, cinema admissions have been rising recently. 
          • a person admitted to hospital for treatment. Ie, there was a substantial reduction in hospital admissions. 

        permission
        [per’mih’shen]
        From late Middle English: from Latin permissio(n-), from the verb permittere = allow; , from per- = through + mittere = send, let go, let pass, put.

        noun
        1. the action of officially allowing someone to do a particular thing; consent or authorization. Ie, they had entered the country with permission. Ie, they received permission to be absent from work for 2 weeks. 
        2. an official document giving authorization. Ie, permissions to reproduce copyright material.

        remission
        [ree’mih’shen]
        From Middle English: from Old French, or from Latin remissio(n-), from remittere = send back, restore; from re- = back + mittere = send, let go, let pass, put. 

        noun
        1. the cancellation of a debt, charge, or penalty. Ie, the scheme allows for the partial remission of tuition fees. 
          • (British) the reduction of a prison sentence, especially as a reward for good behaviour. Ie, for every two days they work, the prisoners earn one day's remission of their sentence. 
          • (formal) forgiveness of sins. 
        2. a temporary diminution of the severity of disease or pain. Ie, ten patients remained in remission.

        intermission
        [in’ter’mih’shen]
        From late Middle English: from Latin intermissio(n-), from the verb intermittere; from inter- = between + mittere = send, let go, let pass, put.

        noun 
        1. a pause or break. Ie, ill students were granted an intermission in their studies. Ie, the daily work goes on without intermission. 
        2. an interval between parts of a play, film, or concert.
        [Practice]

        Optional
        -- Chant Mantrastyle

        Why? Why not?
        Start today. 
        As the case may be.
        Or not.



        7. Acknowledgments

        Reconciliation
        Acknowledging traditional inhabitants of Cities of Port Phillip and Glen Eira are the Boon Wurrung, Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. Respect is offered to past, present and future elders of all spiritual traditions. May we find together a generous way to accommodate those in need of refuge. Let us be cool, strive individually and together to overcome inequality, violence, disengagement, tragedy and injustice wherever it may be. Let us honour, savor and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully with less effort in our place called home.

        Invitation to Support Content Creators
        The music/stories/videos have been sourced from public domain. If you like any of the content, please consider buying directly from online marketplaces to support creators and truth telling in the public interest.

        Caretaker Disclosure
        Words and concepts are conditional things that point to a 'reflection of experience'. They are limited and do not adequately describe the 'full lived experience'. Like the moon's reflection on a lake's surface, it is not the moon, nor the experience of gazing up at the darkened sky transformed by the presence of a full moon. It is in the eyes/ears/nose/mouth/touch/cognisance of the beholder.

        This curation is an interpretation of the universal basis of re:lig:ion (Latin = again:uniting:energy) or bodhicitta (Sanskrit = Awakening Consciousness). This email invites a sharing of countless thoughts, words and actions wishing, causing and receiving less Suffering and more Happiness. For benefit initially of the individual increasing in beneficiaries until it includes all across the 3 times and 10 directions. Or not. As each case may be.

        It is not personal, it just the way things are.

        Jackie Huggins, Bidjara/Pitjara, Birri Gubba Juru woman and Aboriginal Australian