Looking For Harmony

Cronulla’s harmony day fell short of a 'family festival'

On Sunday the 26th of March, over three months after Cronulla was the scene of racial conflict, the beach side suburb planned to celebrate Harmony Day, as part of the national campaign to promote the benefits of multiculturalism.

This opportunity to heal the scars of December’s riots and showcase the initiatives set up to promote community cohesion, unfortunately was not fully realized.

A walk along Cronulla beach and through the central shopping area, on Sunday the 26th, gave no signs of a day of celebration. Residents and business owners were unaware of the event. Chi Thai, the owner of a popular café in Cronulla Mall, said on Sunday “I didn’t know about it, I read the newspapers everyday, but usually we receive a letter from the council”.

A life guard and member of North Cronulla Life Saving Club, Luke, said prior to Sunday the 26th “I don’t think there will be many people here, it hasn’t been very well publisized’

The Leader listed events a week prior to the day, including entertainment ,dance, food , and a women's walk for harmony, emphasizing the timeliness of the event for this area.

Aboriginal elder and community member, Diane Schreiber, who made a welcome speech on Sunday said she aimed to “empower women, in their role to harmonize the community”. Regrettably, many in the community went about their day oblivious of this important message.