Federal Member for Chifley Roger Price announced (that) the Federal Government would spend $50,000 in support for newly-arrived migrants and refugees.
Through the Government’s Diverse Australia Program, Blacktown Arts Centre’s African Theatre Education Kit will bring to life a play written over two years by a Sudanese youth group.
“This Australian Government funding will allow the Centre to professionally film the play and develop an education resource kit for western Sydney high schools,” Mr Price said.
Aimed at both African and non-African youth, “My Name is Sud (Soo-d)” deals with inter-generational conflict, the differences between African and Australian culture, cultural isolation and trauma.
“Many of the newly-arrived youth have already overcome considerable odds to escape hardship in their former homelands and begin their new lives in Australia,” Mr Price said.
“Yet they still face many difficulties in being able to get involved in our community because of their limited English skills and unfamiliarity with Australian customs and culture.
“It is crucial that youth from all backgrounds feel welcome in the Blacktown community,” Mr Price said.
More information on Diverse Australia Program projects can be found at www.harmony.gov.au.