Multicultural communities working together to stop the spread of COVID-19

I wanted to take a moment to reach out to you, as an important leader in Victoria’s multicultural community.

Over the past few months, I’ve witnessed our communities draw on our collective strength and resilience to support each other, especially our most vulnerable members. Thank you for the important role you’ve played in providing information and guidance to your communities, friends, colleagues and families. 

I want to also thank you for your regular and insightful feedback and engagement with the Victorian Multicultural Commission — through numerous online consultations, roundtables and conversations. Your deep connections to community have been invaluable in guiding our recommendations to the Victorian Government around the needs of multicultural communities at this difficult time.

You may have seen an increase in media attention and commentary being directed at multicultural communities over the past few days.

The Commission is committed to ensuring that Victoria’s diverse cultural, linguistic and faith communities are not blamed for the recent rise in active cases. As you know, the virus does not discriminate, and no one is to blame. 

However, this is a reminder to all of us, that we must maintain, and where possible extend, our efforts to ensure that the latest information, especially around changes to restrictions reach everyone ⁠— including those Victorians from new and emerging communities. 

I’m urging you once again to reach out to those who may require help to access information or need practical support or advice. I also ask you to assist in minimising the spread of misinformation.

We must continue to work together to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and protect the lives of all Victorians.

Vivienne Nguyen
Chairperson
Victorian Multicultural Commission