Understanding Community Cohesion
‘Community cohesion’ should be used in the broadest sense. Alternative terms include anti-racism, and community relations, and each has their own connotations. Some basic principles of community cohesion are:
- A socially inclusive multicultural Australia where Australians of all backgrounds are able to live together in relative harmony and where racism is not tolerated.
- Where culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities are free to practice, maintain and develop their own cultures and religions.
- Where different communities (including Anglo-Celtic Australians) are encouraged to interact and intermingle with one another in everyday contexts across cultural differences and divides.
- Where diverse Australians are willing to work together for common ends, and to deal with situations of tension or conflict in a spirit of respectful yet open communication and dialogue.
- Where there is a commitment to tackling racism and discrimination where it occurs. The responsibility for tackling racism lies with all Australians, not just government and institutions.
In the UK, A cohesive community is one where:
- There is a common vision and a sense of belonging for all communities
- The diversity of people’s different backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued
- Those from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities
- Strong and positive relationships are being developed between people from different backgrounds and circumstances in the workplace, in schools and within neighbourhoods"
