For the first time ever, VietSpeak is bringing a Language in Community Festival to Footscray, for a day of multiculturalism education and fun.
Vietspeak director Hoang Tran Nguyen said the festival is about creating more opportunities to celebrate languages being spoken within the communities in the west.
“We have recognised that in terms of a multicultural west, language isn’t really celebrated,” he said.
“It’s not centred or highlighted in the importance that it plays within multiculturalism, so that’s what this festival is trying to sort of highlight.”
Vietspeak is non-profit organisation based in Maribyrnong, made up of a group of people who advocate for community-centred language education.
Mr Tran Nguyen said this festival will bring to life a showcase of cultural exchange, language diversity and community engagement.
“It will be a day of performances and activities dedicated to celebrating language diversity and supporting its continuity from generation to generation.”
The festival will feature a range of artists, as well as karaoke, kite and badge making workshops, stalls and other activities.
Some of the languages which will be sung and spoken include Vietnamese, Spanish, Greek, Nahuat, Hindi, Hazaragi and more.
“Our festival is a testament to our commitment to bridging cultures and empowering communities,” Mr Tran Nguyen said.
“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the beauty of the Vietnamese language and culture.
“By bringing people together through the Vietnamese language, this event is set to create a bridge that transcends linguistic boundaries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the cultural mosaic that is Australia. “We can’t wait to see it come together.”
The festival will be held on Saturday, December 9, from 11am-3pm at Seelaf Square.
Jennifer Pittorino
