paul mallett proposes that the City of Launceston support an annual multi-faith festival to promote tolerance and respect in our community.

Building upon the long tradition of Harmony Week activities in our community, paul proposes an event or events where people from different religions and spiritual traditions come together to celebrate, share, and learn about each other’s beliefs, customs, and values.

The festival could feature:

• Music and dance from diverse faith traditions (e.g. gospel choirs, Sufi whirling, bhajans, chanting).
• Shared food stalls or communal meals, respecting dietary laws (e.g. halal, kosher, vegetarian).
• Interfaith ceremonies or peace prayers, where leaders and followers offer blessings or reflections.
• Art exhibitions and craft workshops inspired by different faiths.
• Storytelling, panel talks, or dialogues where people explain their faith and answer questions.
• Displays or booths where visitors can explore sacred texts, symbols, and traditions.
• Youth activities and games designed to promote friendship and understanding.
• Community service elements, like charity fundraising or environmental clean-ups.

The benefits to the community would include:

• Break down stereotypes — People meet individuals from faiths they might otherwise only know through media or hearsay.
• Encourage empathy — Hearing personal stories helps people see life from another’s perspective.
• Show shared values — Many faiths promote peace, kindness, and justice; festivals highlight these commonalities.
• Reduce fear of the unknown — Exposure reduces anxiety about differences.
• Create friendships across communities — Social connections form in a positive, relaxed setting.
• Promote dialogue over division — Open conversations replace suspicion or isolation.
• Celebrate diversity — Faith traditions are honoured, not hidden or homogenized.
• Demonstrate peaceful coexistence — People see how different beliefs can live side-by-side harmoniously.
• Inspire joint action — Communities may collaborate on charity or environmental efforts after the festival.
• Model respect for young people — Children and teens learn to value inclusivity and understanding.

Po: Could the festival be the space where “citizenship ceremonies” are held?

Po: Could awards of tolerance and respect be presented at the festival?

Po: Could local students in media studies produce videos from participants to circulate following the festival?