In praise of cultural diversity

Whangarei's central library will host a colourful parade of people in national costumes from all over the world on Saturday.

Representatives from more than 20 nationalities in Whangarei will wear their traditional and ethnic costumes and will be accompanied by music from each country.

Artists from a variety of cultural groups will entertain.

This costume parade is a unique way of celebrating the people of diverse cultural heritages living in the region, Whangarei District Council libraries manager Paula Urlich says.

The event is free and everyone is welcome. It will start at 2.30pm at the Central Library.

The International Costume Parade is one of the celebrations tied to Race Relations Day, on Sunday, March 21. This annual day of celebration unites cultures and communities all over the world and coincides with the Bahai New Year.

Other local events related to the Race Relations Day:

On Thursday, March 18, the Central Library will hold the Northland Race Unity Speech Competition for senior high school students. This year's theme is diversity in the human family.

On Sunday, March 21, Whangarei's Race Relations Day Celebration Dinner will be held from 4pm to 8pm at Maunu Primary School, and will include a meal, entertainment by ethnic groups, a speech by the Northland regional winner of the speech contest, a discussion forum, and musical performances.

Race Relations Day celebrations have grown to include other organisations. This year, the Whangarei Migrant Centre, Settlement Support in Whangarei, WINGS (the local women's newcomers social group), the Korean community and English Language Partners have helped to organise the Race Relations Day celebrations.

- © Fairfax NZ News