ECCV held our 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 5 December. The evening was a testament to the enduring strength of Victoria’s diverse communities, and we were delighted to come together with so many members and supporters to reflect on the past year, and mark our 50th anniversary milestone.
The event was a tribute not only to the long-standing leaders who have been crucial to the founding and development of ECCV over the past five decades, but also to the bright, young minds who will continue to carry the torch of multiculturalism well into the future.
Guest speaker Lee Tarlamis MP joined us to highlight the state government’s new Anti-Racism Strategy. We were also joined by Hass Dellal AO, who participated in an enlightening conversation with ECCV CEO Farah Farouque about the federal government’s landmark Multicultural Framework Review and what it means for migrant and refugee communities on the ground.
Another highlight of the night was performances from Mzuri Dance and the Northeastern Melbourne Chinese Association, who got the crowd on their feet and clapping along.
Our Chairperson Eddie Micallef, who presided over the formal AGM proceedings, launched ECCV’s Annual Report 2023-24 which spotlights our advocacy, community engagement and projects over the past year.
Celebrating 50 Years of Advocacy
In 1974—a year after the dissolution of the White Australia policy—the historic decision to establish ECCV was made, thereby forming Australia’s first ever ethnic council.