Mayor Greg Cummings has used the occasion of Refugee Week, 17 – 23 June, to invite schools, community groups, organisations and the general public to book a tour of the award-winning Refugee Camp in My Neighbourhood (RCIMN).
The interactive exhibition simulates the journeys of refugees, with tours being led by former refugees and local residents currently seeking asylum. RCIMN will run from Monday 30 July – Friday 10 August 2018 on the grounds of the Auburn Centre for Community.
“Refugee Week is an event near and dear to the community of Cumberland,” Mayor Greg Cummings said.
“The Cumberland Local Government Area has one of the highest populations of refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia.
“This means our community is deeply invested in both the success of refugees and the celebration of Refugee Week.
“As part of Refugee Week we have now opened online bookings for the 2018 Refugee Camp in My Neighbourhood.
“Three types of tours will be available, including tours for the general public, health workers and for professional development more broadly.
“The guided tours offer a deeply personal insight into the experiences of refugees, many of whom have fled war or persecution.
“It also creates a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the contributions refugees make to our community.
“Too often in the wider community we talk about refugees rather than with refugees. Refugee Camp in my Neighbourhood is a unique opportunity to meet people from refugee communities who call Cumberland home.”
