'Harmony Day' is a day to celebrate Australian multiculturalism, based on the successful integration of migrants into our community. Harmony Day is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core Australian values. It held every year on 21 March. The Day coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Since 1999, more than 70,000 Harmony Day events have been held in childcare centers, schools, community groups, churches, businesses and federal, state and local government agencies across Australia.
'Harmony Day' is an Australian government program that centers on the message "Everyone belongs", reinforcing the importance of inclusiveness to all Australians. Since 1999 thousands of Harmony Day event have been staged in the childcare centers, schools, community groups, churches and businesses and federal state.
Orange is the official colour of Harmony Day. Traditionally, the colour orange is associated with social communication and stimulating two-way conversations. A warm and inviting colour, it motivates people to think and have a meaningful talk. It also relates to the freedom of thoughts, ideas and encouraging people to develop mutual respect. The colour orange is taken as a symbol of a change in attitude from racism and discrimination to understanding, peace and harmony. With all the attributes that colour orange signifies, people are encouraged to wear the colour orange to show their support for cultural diversity and inclusiveness on Harmony Day since it was first celebrated in Australia in 1999.
The history of Harmony Day can be traced all the way back to The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination that was created by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966. The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is held annually on March 21st because that is when police opened fire and killed 69 peaceful protesters at an anti-apartheid demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa in 1960. In 1999, Australia enacted Harmony Day which is set up to coincide with this day.
In 2021, the Department is leading national celebrations for Harmony Week to recognize diversity and inclusion activities that take place during the entire week. Harmony Week includes 21 March, which is the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.