On 27 November 2008, the leaders and members of South Australia's diverse African communities came together to identify and discuss their shared issues, concerns and aspirations across a broad range of areas. These included education, employment and training, housing, health, family relationships, identity and integration, law and the police, leadership and governance, migration and family reunion, participation and social inclusion, and the rights and protection of children, youth and women. The forum, hosted by the African Communities Council of SA (ACCSA) and the Migrant Resource Centre of SA (MRCSA), generated much discussion and provided significant insights into the experiences and perceptions of African new arrivals to South Australia.
The African Communities Speak Out Report, entitled Making Our Voices Heard, was officially launched by the Minister Assisting the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, The Hon Carmel Zollo MLC, at the MRCSA Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 11 February 2009. This report provides a valuable blueprint for policy makers and service providers involved in the planning and delivery of services to African and other refugee new arrivals.
For additional information, or to obtain a copy of the report, contact Martin Maya at the ACCSA on (tel) 8217 9520 or (email) martin@accsa.com.au, or Matti Spellacy at the MRCSA (tel) 8217 9510 or (email) admin@mrcsa.com.au
