Diversity Forum and Youth Forum –26 August 2013

The annual New Zealand Diversity Forum, now in its ninth year, is a unique event that brings together those interested in New Zealand’s increasing diversity to share ideas and best practice.

The New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO has been a partner of the Forum since its inception.

The theme this year is “My dream for Aotearoa New Zealand”.

Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy will open the Forum. Her focus will be on increasing social cohesion and reducing inequalities – two key goals of UNESCO’s work internationally.

The forum will be held at Te Papa, as the main venue, with some sessions at Wharewaka and the Museum of Wellington City & Sea.

From 10.30am until 12 noon, the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO will host the panel: “Religious Diversity: focus on Media”. This will be convened by the UNESCO Chair in Interreligious Studies and Understanding, Professor Paul Morris from Victoria University.

The National Commission for UNESCO also actively supports the Youth Forum being held ahead of the Diversity Forum. At this, young people will contribute their views and ideas on the theme, which they will then present at the Diversity Forum.

”Engaging with youth and ensuring that their voices are heard is a key focus for us,” says Elizabeth Rose, Secretary General of the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.

The annual New Zealand Diversity Awards: Celebrating Best Practice, Innovation and Respecting Diversity will be presented to 10 organisations chosen from the 250+ organisations who participate in the National Commission for UNESCO’s New Zealand Diversity Action Programme network. The presentation ceremony will start at 6pm preceded by a networking event at 4.30pm.

More details on other parts of the programme are available on the Human Rights Commission website.

Registration can be completed online, phoning 0800 496 877 or by emailing jillm@hrc.co.nz.

New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO
“Action for peace and social justice through education, the natural, social and human sciences, culture, communications and information.”

Appointed and funded by the New Zealand Government, the National Commission represents UNESCO and works to promote UNESCO’s vision, goals and programmes within New Zealand and the Pacific.

www.unesco.org.nz

ENDS

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