Temporary tattoos and drumming, all ways to show support for Penrith's refugees

by StreetCorner
16/06/2011

Karifi drummers from Ghana will take to the stage in a free event as part of Penrith's Refugee Week at the State Government Building forecourt, opposite Penrith station, on Friday 24 June from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. It's all part of a plan by Penrith Council, Nepean Migrant Access, Penrith Women’s Health, Community Health, TAFE and TRI Community Exchange to help the community show their support for refugees who live in the area. It's a positive and proactive approach, which seeks to recognise the desperate circumstances in which refugees flee their homes and echoes the theme of 2011 Refugee Week ‘Freedom from Fear’. As part of this Freedom, the hope of a new life in another land is also celebrated.

“Refugees can carry psychological scars from their experience of persecution, violent conflict and human rights abuses. As a community, we can help ease these traumas by embracing refugees and helping them adjust to their life in Australia," said Penrith City Deputy Mayor Jim Aitken OAM

Penrith City has been a Refugee Welcome Zone since 2008 and earlier this year, Council supported a trip to Parliament House for Sudanese and Iraqi refugees keen to learn about levels of government in Australia.

“About seven percent of Australians have a parent or grandparent who came to our country as a refugee, or are themselves a refugee. Refugees welcomed into our country make important contributions that enrich Australia’s vibrant culture," said Councillor Aitken.

Locals will also get to hear refugees sharing their own stories of despair and hope.

Information stalls and a display depicting refugees’ stories will feature as part of this free event, as well as giveaways of ‘Racism - no way!’ stickers and ‘No Fear’ temporary tattoos. For more information call 4732 8096 or visit www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au.

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