23 March 2006
THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES - A CELEBRATION OF HARMONY AND DIVERSITY
Harmony Day March 21st, is the day chosen by the Australian Government for Australians to reflect upon and celebrate this countries success as a diverse, harmonious and multi-cultural society, to re-commit to the shared values of respect and goodwill towards our fellow citizens of all backgrounds and to reject racism.
The Day also coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which was proclaimed by the UN in 1966 in response to the Sharpeville massacre on 21st Mar 1960, when 69 South Africans died during their participation in a peaceful protest against the 'pass laws' then in operation under South Africa’s apartheid regime.
This year Harmony Day also falls during the Commonwealth Games when thousands of athletes and visitors from the 71 nations that comprise the Commonwealth have gathered and been welcomed in Melbourne to compete in a spirit of goodwill and unity in 16 sports over 11 days.
