Celebrating Harmony Day, the Living Library is designed to build a positive framework for conversations that challenge assumptions, prejudices and stereotypes.
Assumptions, prejudices and stereotypes can be experienced by racial or religious groups or minorities, people with disabilities or diverse sexual orientations.
Multicultural Australia has long experienced patterns of discrimination, with many Italian migrants describing the difficulties of integrating in the early years, particularly in the world war period.
Nowadays, other migrant groups or minorities are at a greater risk of discrimination, although Italian stereotypes like the Godfather or Super Mario are still widely diffused.
The event offers an opportunity for community members to ask questions and gain insight into other people’s life experiences.
Librarygoers can register to be “readers” and borrow one or more living books for up to half an hour.
The diverse range of living books available includes Ben Austin, who overcame discrimination to become one of Australia’s most successful Paralympian swimmers.
Austin is now a motivational speaker who shares his inspiring journey with others.
Readers can also spend time talking with proud Wailwan woman, Aunty Jo, to learn about her life.
As a child Aunty Jo lived at the Beemunnel Reserve before being sent away to a girl's home at the age of six.
She has worked in a range of jobs in Aboriginal welfare, and is active on Council's Aboriginal Advisory Committee.
Prominent member of the LGBTQIA community Nathan Powter will also be “on the bookshelf” for Harmony Day.
Powter is also known as Charisma Belle, a talented dancer, producer, choreographer and actress, who has performed at Sydney Mardi Gras and venues throughout Australia.
The Living Libraries event aims to celebrate and promote diversity and encourage understanding and respect.
