Statement from George Salloum
President, 3ZZZ Ethnic Community Broadcasting Association of Victoria
3ZZZ is deeply concerned by recent comments suggesting that Australia should move away from multiculturalism in favour of a so-called “monocultural” society and questioning the value of multicultural media, including services such as SBS and community broadcasters.
As one of Australia’s oldest and largest ethnic community broadcasters, 3ZZZ sees every day the positive contribution that multiculturalism makes to our nation. Our volunteers and broadcasters represent more than 60 language communities and demonstrate the power of bringing people together through shared values, mutual respect and community participation.
The suggestion that speaking a language other than English at home, maintaining cultural traditions, or preserving community languages somehow undermines social cohesion is not supported by the experience of communities across Australia.
Multiculturalism is not a threat to social cohesion. It is one of Australia’s greatest strengths.
Australia was never a monocultural nation. For tens of thousands of years this continent was home to hundreds of First Nations languages and cultures. Today’s multicultural Australia continues that tradition of diversity, enriched by successive generations of migrants who have made this country their home.
Australia’s strength lies not in cultural uniformity, but in our ability to build a shared future from many histories, languages and traditions. Social cohesion is strengthened when people are encouraged to participate fully in Australian life while maintaining connections to their culture, language and community.
A healthy democracy depends on media diversity. Access to information, stories and perspectives from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds makes our public conversations richer, more informed and more representative of the communities that make up our nation. Multicultural and community media ensure that voices which may otherwise go unheard are able to participate fully in Australia’s democratic life.
At 3ZZZ, we see every day how multicultural broadcasting builds bridges between communities. Our volunteers come together across languages, faiths and cultural backgrounds with a shared commitment to informing, connecting and serving the Victorian community.
Australia’s diversity is not a problem to be solved. It is a strength to be celebrated.
3ZZZ will continue to champion multiculturalism, support language maintenance, and provide a platform for the many voices that contribute to Australia’s vibrant, democratic and inclusive society.
Interviews available with George Salloum upon request.
Media Contact:
Kat McGuffie, Station Manager
[email protected]