If ever there was a time to reject racism, bigotry and intolerance, and celebrate cultural diversity, inclusiveness and a sense belonging for all, it is now, one week on from the heartbreaking terrorist attack in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Thursday, March 21, 2019 marks Harmony Day, a day to celebrate cultural respect, with the message 'Everyone Belongs'. It is also the United Nations' International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Residents and staff of the Whiddon Group Wingham celebrated Harmony Day with joy and delight, dancing and singing along with musician Afro Moses, who was born and raised in Ghana, West Africa.
Watch Afro Moses' message about Harmony Day at the end of the video:
Whiddon Group Wingham recreation officer, Sonja Pope was inspired to organise the event after seeing Afro at the Wingham Farmers Market. After clearing it with management, she reached out to Afro, who agreed to visit and perform on Harmony Day for free.
For one and a half hours, Afro entertained the residents, beginning with gentle music and ending with a dance party. The residents laughed, sang along and danced - some sitting in their chairs, and some up on the feet. One, Dorothy Murray, showed phenomenal stamina, up on her feet and sharing her love with the other residents.
Related content: Mid North Coast Now: Afro has a big dream
The joy of being present in the moment was visible on all of the faces gathered in the room, not least Afro's.
"When I see the smiles on your faces it makes me feel like I'm in heaven," he said. "I'm so happy and honoured to be here."
Afro Moses celebrates his birthday at a concert with his band, the Afro Moses Spirit Band, after the Twilight Markets at Mondrook, on Saturday, March 23. For more details visit the Afro Moses Spirit Band With Mondrook Twilight Market Facebook event page.