Harmony Day 2019 in Australia

Is Harmony Day a Public Holiday?

Harmony Day is not a public holiday, according to Holidays 2019. This day is nationally observed on 21 March every year, and despite its significance, this day is regarded as a normal working day. Since it is not a public holiday for major regions, people work on a normal basis and follow the regular hours.

Schools and colleges organize certain cultural events and commemorate the underlying lesson of solidarity, respect and integrity. People adorn Orange ribbons, wristbands or clothing to show their support for this day.

Harmony Day History

Harmony Day history holds high significance and preaches the message of cultural unison and disparity with the motto “Everyone Belongs” and is organized by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, Australia. This quote preaches the significance of religious, political, social and cultural inclusiveness in the hearts of Australians.

This has been regarded as an Australian program since 1999, and is observed by community groups, families, schools, government and public agencies and much more. On this day, people come together, conduct and participate in local activities, and honors the feeling of respect and unison among each other. The color Orange is widely adorned on this day.

Why Do We Wear Orange On Harmony Day?

Orange is said to be the chosen color for Harmony Day. Conventionally speaking, the color Orange signifies determination and meaningful communication, and represents mutual respect and freedom of thoughts and ideas. This is why Australian natives widely wear this color in any form, be it a band, ribbons, t-shirt or sweater, to show their support.

Harmony Day Facts

Here we are jotting down some Harmony Day facts that describe the cultural diversity of Australia and sheds light on the disparity that makes Australia one of the densely populated country:

1. It is believed that about 70,000+ stages have been conducted on Harmony Day since its inception in 1999, that aim to create awareness about various heritages and religions coexisting in the Australian communities.

2. It is stated that around 250+ Indigenous or Aboriginal languages are spoken in Australia.

3. It has been evaluated that around more than 45% Australians are either not a birth-native of the country, i.e. born overseas, or have one of the parents in the same category.

4. After English, Australia’s top five languages are Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese, Vietnamese and Italian. Quite versatile!

5. The United Kingdom, China (excluding Taiwan and Hong Kong), Italy, New Zealand and Vietnam are the top five countries from where immigrants come to reside in Australia.

Harmony Day Celebrations

1. Harmony Day helps to break down the racist barriers and discrimination, and allows natives to come together as one without any prejudice. People from different cultures and religions must be respected and embraced without any further thoughts. One of the Harmony Day celebration ideas is to make society safe and sound for people of different religions or cultures by giving them space, time and opportunity to adapt and learn about the country and surroundings.

2. Schools and colleges host fairs, assemblies, events etc. to mark the day’s significance.

3. Communal groups host tea parties and get-togethers to welcome people of different backgrounds, where people enjoy mouth-watering delicacies from around the world and share their experiences.

4. People wear the Color of Anti-Discrimination, Orange on Harmony Day, and take part in street processions.

5. Social media platforms are used as a means to raise awareness on Harmony Day.

Harmony Day Observances

FAQs

We hope you have liked our article on Harmony Day 2019 and understand its origin. We wish you a bright mind and embracing heart!