2022 National Social Cohesion & Inclusion Conference

This year’s conference will begin by honouring and celebrating the thousands of well-wishers of humanity who came together at more than 85 of The World Conferences in Australia to deliberate on the material, social and spiritual progress of our country and to identify steps required to traverse the obstacles impeding social cohesion. It brought together thousands of individuals and community representatives from every part of Australia, of all religions, cultures, ages and backgrounds, who share a longing to foster social cohesion and unity and to contribute to the betterment of the world. Their determination and strong sense of purpose reflected in the spirit generated at these conferences, hosted by local Baha’i communities across Australia. A report capturing their insights, hopes, noble aspirations, and unity of vision and action will be formally presented to the representatives of the Australian government at the opening reception. This will be followed by cultural and artistic performances celebrating our cohesion, diversity and the oneness of humanity.

The remaining sessions of the conference will include keynote presentations, panels and small group consultations where civil society leaders and representatives will deliberate further on this report and consult on steps to strengthen social cohesion along the lines of themes:

Themes:

• A vision of social cohesion in Australia
• The distance traversed to strengthen social cohesion: Community, Mass Media and Government Institutions
• Obstacles impeding further progress
• Glimpses of Social Transformation: Experiences from organisations and communities of practice

 

Keynote speakers:

Aleem Ali, CEO, Welcoming Australia

Hugh Mackay AO, Social Researcher and Author

Jason Falinski MP, Member for Mackellar

Tessa Scrine, Member, Continental Board of Counsellors in Australasia

Vic Alhadeff, SBS Board of Directors

 

Further keynote speakers to be announced 

Program

30 May 2022, 6:30 pm
Canape dinner, cultural performances and keynotes

31 May 2022, 9 am – 5 pm
Presentations, panel discussions and small group discussions
Location
Rydges World Square
389 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW
Online streaming and breakout rooms also available for those unable to attend in person

Register to Attend

 

We are pleased to offer scholarship opportunities for those who would like to be part of the National Social Cohesion and Inclusion Conference but may be prevented from doing so due to financial limitations. Please apply by emailing ausbahaievents@bahai.org.au.

Printed copies of the Creating an Inclusive Narrative publication are available for purchase or download. It was formulated out of a project which explored complex questions around social cohesion with over 500 diverse community and institutional representatives at 50 roundtables across the country. The publication is a synthesis of the most prevalent and unifying insights, ideas and descriptions of our common humanity and the values which can move us towards strengthening social cohesion and inclusion in our country.