primeits.auNowRuz Celebration at Victoria Parliament 28/03/2023
Nowruz is the Persian New Year, which begins on the spring equinox in the Northern hemisphere, marking the first day of Farvardin, the first month of the Iranian solar calendar. It is celebrated worldwide by more than 350 million people from various ethnolinguistic groups and falls on or around March 21 of the Gregorian calendar.
The Australian Iranian Society of Victoria has been celebrating Nowruz in Melbourne for many years with the aim of introducing Melburnians to Iranian culture. While we used to have a special Nowruz Dinner for Iranian residents of Melbourne, AISOV has held three Nowruz events in Parliament specifically for the multicultural community leaders and policymakers in Victoria.
However, this year’s Nowruz in Parliament was different.
AISOV held this important day with a special commemoration of Iran’s current situation and the Women, Life, Freedom movement theme.
Our distinguished guests listened to several speeches by AISOV’s management committee and parliamentary representatives, including Hon. Natalie Hutchins with a message from Premier Daniel Andrews and Leader of Opposition John Pesutto. Also, Senator Claire Chandler, Shadow Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, sent us a statement that was read by the MC. We wrapped up this event with a heartfelt speech by Ms. Ann-Marie Hermans MP.
Nowruz 2023 at Parliament was graced with the performances of some talented Iranian artists. Through their captivating music, enchanting dance, and thought-provoking short play, they beautifully conveyed the powerful themes of women, life, and freedom. It was an extraordinary experience for all who were lucky enough to witness it.