A discussion about empowering women and girls through education, with particular reference to women's experiences in Afghanistan and Iran. Speakers included Azam Sadeghpour, spokesperson for the Iranian Women's Association Australia, Najeebah Wasefadost, Founder Global Refugee Network, Rita Anwari, Founder and President of Women Empowerment and Leadership and Andree Brown, Executive Director of Edmund Rice Community Services.

Happy NAWRUZ to all those celebrating especially to the Afghan and Iranian communities where it’s widely celebrated.

Yesterday, the Edmund Rice Centre, alongside the Iranian and Afghan communities, celebrated NAWRUZ and Harmony Day at NSW Parliament. The event aimed to honor diversity and multiculturalism in Australia, fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. Nawruz, meaning "new day" in Farsi, symbolizes nature's rebirth and is celebrated as the first day of spring, marking the year 1403 in the Hijri Shamsi (Solar) calendar. It holds special significance in Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asian countries like Tajikistan. Sadly, the Taliban has banned Nawruz in Afghanistan, deeming it un-Islamic.

The celebration included a panel discussion addressing the dire human rights situations in Afghanistan and Iran. Panelists shared insights and proposed solutions, with participants engaging in a Q&A session.

We are seeing the rights of people seeking asylum in Australia continue to be a political football in our public discourse. Our institutions of government, fourth estate and those in power need to consider the irreparable harm of policies that our highest court has deemed illegal. This not just to those affected, but Australia’s reputation as the nation of a fair go and one that treats people with compassion. #compassionatesovereignborders