2nd September 2010

WEYMOUTH: Multi culture club to launch

A MULTICULTURAL celebration event featuring film, music, food and dancing is taking place in Weymouth this September to launch a new Community Contacts initiative.

The event is being organised by the South West Dorset Multicultural Network with support from Weymouth and Portland council, West Dorset council and Dorset Police.
Community Contacts aims to provide a personal point of contact for local people of black or other minority ethnic backgrounds who face language barriers, prejudice or are simply looking for a friendly face.
The celebration on Saturday, September 18th from 2pm-11pm is being held at Weymouth’s Old Town Hall.
It will feature attractions including a 3pm film screening and 7pm-11pm live music and international cuisine which will be spread across both floors of the venue. Entry is free of charge and refreshments will be available throughout the day.
A representative from Dorset County Council’s Extended Services for schools will also be present to promote a new Language Cafe initiative starting this autumn to support school-aged black and minority ethnic children and their families.
Network chairman Anne-Marie Vincent said: “We aim to reach out to all members of the ethnic minority community and befriend and guide them in their attempt to live, work and raise their families free from any form of discrimination within Dorset.”
“We welcome everyone and hope that all members of the community can steer anyone they know who may feel isolated and seek guidance to the Community Contact members.”
Inspector Pete Meteau said: “Dorset Police takes any incident perceived by the victim as being motivated by their race, faith or any other characteristic very seriously. Our commitment to tackling all hate crime goes hand in hand with celebrating diversity in the local community and this event has our full support.”
Weymouth and Portland equality and diversity spokesman Councillor Kate Wheller said: “The launch of Community Contacts here in Weymouth and Portland is an important step for the borough.
“I am certainly very much looking forward to the event, and hope that people take this opportunity to take part and help to break the ice, build friendships and celebrate the growing diversity of the area.”

PICTURE: Anne-Marie Vincent and members of the SWDMCN and Councillor Kate Wheller prepare for the launch event of the Multi Culture Club