The Multifaith Advisory Group marks UN World Interfaith Harmony Week, reinforcing a decade-long commitment to dialogue and peace in Victoria.
In a poignant display of solidarity, senior leaders from Victoria’s diverse faith communities gathered on the steps of Parliament House yesterday to observe United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week. The event, convened by the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG), was attended by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt MP and fellow parliamentarians.
Vitoria’s faith leaders standing in front of the Parliament House
Against a backdrop of a banner promoting social and religious harmony, representatives from Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist, Baha’i and other traditions promoted mutual understanding and dialogue. The gathering underscored the critical role of interfaith cooperation in fostering a cohesive and resilient Victoria, particularly following the recent Bondi terror attack.
The Initiative’s History and Purpose
The Multifaith Advisory Group is a longstanding initiative of the Victorian Multicultural Commission. Established to formalise the government’s partnership with the state’s diverse religious communities, the MAG acts as a vital consultative body and a proactive network for social cohesion. Its core purpose is to provide advice on multifaith issues, support policy development that respects religious diversity, and lead by example in promoting interfaith understanding.
The annual observance of UN World Interfaith Harmony Week, first proclaimed by the General Assembly in 2010, has become a cornerstone of the MAG’s calendar. This global initiative provides a dedicated time for communities of all faiths and beliefs to deepen interreligious dialogue and collaborate on common humanitarian goals.
Proven Usefulness and Community Impact
The usefulness of such gatherings extends far beyond symbolism. By creating regular opportunities for leaders to meet, the initiative builds crucial personal relationships and trust. This established network becomes a powerful tool for rapid, coordinated community reassurance during times of crisis or tension.
The visual and spoken unity demonstrated sends a powerful public message, visibly countering narratives of division and modelling respectful coexistence for the entire community. It also provides government with a direct channel to the perspectives of faith communities, helping to ensure policies and public messages are informed and effective in maintaining social harmony.
“Through harmony and prayer, we find the strength to stand against all forms of hate and violence,” a MAG spokesperson stated.
Quotes from Faith Leaders:
Sheik Muhammad Nawas Saleem of the Board of Imams Victoria emphasised shared values, stating: “In Islam, we believe in the principles of compassion, dialogue and love for God and neighbour. During World Interfaith Harmony Week, we share this with other faiths.”
Echoing the call for proactive peacebuilding, Rabbi Daniel Rabin of the Rabbinical Council of Victoria noted: “In Jewish tradition, redifat shalom – the pursuit of peace – encourages dialogue to build a harmonious coexistence with others. It starts with small actions, like this peaceful gathering.”
Bishop Paul Barker from the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne reinforced the commitment to mutual respect, saying: “In the Anglican Church, we value faith, love and worship. Through our love for God and our neighbours, this World Interfaith Harmony Week, we listen and build bridges to other faiths.”
The powerful show of unity served as both a celebration of a decade-long UN initiative and a demonstration of Victoria’s practical, ongoing commitment to interfaith harmony as a vital pillar for a more inclusive and unified society.
