By Harish Velji
An end of year reception for the ethnic media was held in Governor Macquarie Tower in Sydney by the Community Relations Commission.
In attendance with the ethnic media representatives were Premier Kristina Keneally, Attorney General and Minister for Citizenship Hon John Hatzistergos MLC , Member for Drummoyne Angela D’ Amore, Leader of the House and Member for Riverstone, John Aquilina, newest member of the NSW Legislative Council Shaoquett Moselmane and Chairperson of Community Relations Council Stepan Kerkyasharian
I was lucky enough to the only representative from the Indian print media to be present whilst the bulk of those who were present were from the South East Asian media.
Hon John Hatzistergos MLC only recently took the realms of Minister for Citizenship. For him this is not the first time that he has held this post. He had previously served as the Minister Assisting from 2003 – 2005 under the past premier Bob Carr.
“Just as volunteers play a vital role in our culturally diverse society- so does the community language media” said Hon Hatzistergos.
“You shine the torch on emerging issues; keep our citizens well – informed and help new migrants to understand the systems they need to negotiate in this country.”
“Most importantly you shape the national debate on the kind of multicultural society we should aspire to be.
“You also play a significant role in promoting the culture and language of your respective communities.”
New South Wales’s first female Premier, Kristina Keneally was very well received by one and all of the media. As you can imagine that the vast majority of those who were present from South East Asian media, they were snap happy for the photo to be taken with the Premier Keneally who very happily obliged each and every one of them.
Premier Kristina Keneally was very approachable and willing to talk on any issues. Whilst former Premier Rees was very well versed with the members of the Indian community in both side of the politics and also the Indian issues, I have no doubt that Premier Keneally will not take long to identify with the Indian community because of her zeal and charisma.
Having arrived in 1994 Premier Keneally understands the challenges faced in adapting to a new culture and new surroundings. It was also recognised that the ethnic media is only source of information for some in the community.
“As NSW Premier my commitment is to deliver for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in New South Wales.’
“My focus is on inclusiveness, social harmony and community participation and I want to work with you, along with the communities you represent to create this.”
“The community language media in NSW is one of the great strengths of our linguistically and culturally diverse society.”
“You play an invaluable role. You give those in our community, whose first language is often other than English, a chance to participate in our community and make a contribution to our society.”
“Most importantly, you shape the multicultural society that as a State we aspire to be.” said Premier Keneally.
