Human rights film festival goes west

An exploration of the refugee experience will light up the big screen in Footscray this Saturday.

For the first time, the Human Rights Arts and Film Festival (HRAFF) arrives in Footscray to celebrate the stories of our newest Australians.

The free Footscray Community Arts Centre (FCAC) event kicks off with a performance by the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre’s music group, followed by a selection of short films from the festival’s 2016 line-up and a panel discussion.

FCAC director and chief executive Jade Lillie said Melbourne’s west is a perfect example of an international community in a local context.

“The west is a diverse place, with an arts scene that strives to reflect that, and in doing so, presents us with incredible stories and experiences that resonate all around the world,” she said.

Maribyrnong mayor Cameron McDonald said the council was proud to support the event as a reflection of its staunch support for people from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds.

“Maribyrnong would not be the dynamic, culturally diverse place it is today without the significant contribution from our residents from nations across the globe,” he said

HRAFF Goes West: Seeking Refuge will take place in the FCAC from 2-4pm Saturday, May 14. Free, but bookings essential: 2016.hraff.org.au/event/hraff-goes-west