Multicultural Arc Making Multicultural Australia: Past, Present and Future
Multicultural Arc describes and analyses a half-century of multicultural action and policy in Australia, as the country changed from being 99.5% European to one of the most diverse societies in the world.
Through examinations of the changes introduced by successive governments, readers follow the twists and turns of ideology and popular attitudes. From the “invention” of Australian multiculturalism through to attacks on its very existence, the affirmation of Australia’s multicultural future now depends on addressing systemic racism and continuing inequalities.
Five key themes include the place of First Nations in a multicultural society, the problems of racism, the challenges of communication and representation, the shredding of research capacity, and the creation of best fit institutions.
Author: Emeritus Professor Andrew Jakubowicz
Dr. Andrew Jakubowicz, one of Australia’s most respected commentators on cultural diversity and public policy, is emeritus professor of Sociology at the University of Technology Sydney. He has been involved in the multicultural social movement since the 1970s, and has led research on many aspects of Australia’s cultural diversity, especially in relation to old and new media. His expertise has contributed to state and Commonwealth policy development, in areas ranging from education to public health. He holds elected membership as a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia, and the Royal Society of NSW. He has curated the web documentary “Making Multicultural Australia in the 21st century”, since 1999.
In early 2023, our CEO Rosa Loria and Sydney MCS commissioned Dr. Andrew Jakubowicz to write “Multicultural Arc” and the book was published in late 2023 by Sydney MCS. The book was launched at Sydney MCS 42nd anniversary celebration dinner on 11.11.2023 at Roundhouse, UNSW.
The book talk was conducted in collaboration with Randwick City Council, with Dr Andrew Jakubowicz in conversation with Craig Foster AM. It was the first time we organized the book talk. We are honored to have Craig Foster AM joining us in the event.
Andrew and Craig come from very different backgrounds but together their difference enriches the discussion. They talked about 50 years of policy, language, barriers and challenges and the way forward to an Australia of genuine inclusion, belonging and equality. It was such an inspiring conversation that we received great feedback from the community. While we celebrating the Harmony Day each year, shall we encourage more conversation that we received great feedback from the community. While we celebrating the Harmony Day each year, shall we encourage more conversation in the community, to speak the truth and more open discussion.
We presented a soccer ball adorned with the signatures of SMCS staff to Craig. This ball symbolizes the unity and teamwork that drives our mission forward. We share the same goal. A pair of shoes was presented to Andrew representing our shared journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Just as we walk together in this journey, we are honoured to have them alongside us, championing the values of diversity and compassion.
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