Melbourne, Feb 24 (Inditop.com) Victoria Premier John Brumby Wednesday participated in the `Vindaloo Against Violence’ initiative, which shows solidarity with the Indian community, by having lunch at an Indian restaurant here with Indian students.
The initiative Vindaloo Against Violence was developed by Mia Northrop, resident of this capital of Victoria province. It is expected that more than 10,000 people will participate in it across Australia.
“The Vindaloo Against Violence initiative is a unique opportunity for Victorians to unite and send a message that the actions of an ignorant few will not be allowed to undermine the reputation of Melbourne as a peaceful and friendly city,” a statement quoted Brumby as saying.
“Victoria has been shaped by people from across the world. We come from over 200 countries, speak more than 230 languages and dialects and follow more than 120 faiths. Today, Victoria’s 150,000-strong Indian community is a vital part of modern-day multicultural Victoria.
“Victoria’s cultural diversity is one of our strengths and any attack on our community is an attack upon us all. Any attack motivated by race or prejudice is particularly disgraceful.
Brumby was joined by the Indian community, including Indian students studying in Melbourne, for lunch at popular Indian cafe Desi Dhaba.
The Victorian parliament dining hall also changed its menu Wednesday to serve Indian cuisine.
Brumby went on to say that it was “well-known that Victorians like to eat out and we have an international reputation for our world-class food scene. This great initiative combines that culinary reputation and uses it to send a message that we do not accept violence against any members of our community”.
In New Delhi, Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Peter Varghese, said: “This is a simple but telling gesture from the Australian community to India and the Indian members of Australia’s community.”
“Australians love the diversity of our multicultural society and have categorically rejected the events of the recent past – they have no place in a society as culturally plural as ours.”
“This initiative will help in building bridges and restoring the trust, respect and friendship that exists between the broad Australian community and its valued members of Indian origin.”
