Sold out at Hafnarborg for a conference on multiculturalism
Over fifty interested individuals attended a multicultural conference held at Hafnarborg this week. There, interested residents, representatives of community organisations and council staff came together for a discussion on diversity, participation and how to foster a good community for everyone. The emphasis was on dialogue about solutions, collaboration and services that meet the needs of all residents.
Challenges and numerous opportunities in a diverse community
Over fifty interested individuals attended a multicultural conference held at Hafnarborg this week. There, interested residents, representatives of community organisations and council staff came together for a discussion on diversity, participation and how to foster a good community for everyone.
An open forum to discuss the state of multiculturalism
The aim of the conference is to create an open forum to discuss the state of multiculturalism in Hafnarfjörður, its challenges, and the many opportunities that a diverse society presents. The focus was on solutions, collaboration, and services that meet the needs of all residents. At the start of the conference, presentations were given on the diverse and dynamic work already being done in Hafnarfjörður in the field of multiculturalism and inclusion. These included the work of the Multicultural Council, the Multicultural Advisory Group, bridge-builders in schools and leisure activities, support for families of foreign origin, multilingual information provision, and a variety of projects in the fields of culture, education, and community participation. The programme included short presentations, round-table discussions and workshops where participants could share their experiences, perspectives and ideas for the further development of the sector within Hafnarfjörður's multicultural community.
„It is extremely important to create a platform where people from different backgrounds come together, listen to one another and have a real impact on the development of society. Inclusion is created when the whole community takes part and works together.“ says Hildur Ýr Jónsdóttir, project manager for multicultural affairs at Hafnarfjörður municipality.
Everyone's participation matters
Hafnarfjörður has a population of nearly 33,600, of whom around 6,150 are foreign nationals, or just over 18%. Poles are by far the largest group. The Multicultural Forum reflects Hafnarfjörður's clear commitment to building a society where diversity is a strength, everyone's participation matters, and residents' voices are heard.