Jews and Muslims doing multiculturalism with a big smile
The Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV) and the Australian Intercultural Society (AIS) have co-hosted the Third Jewish – Muslim Comedy Debate with the topic ‘Arranged marriage is better than dating.’
Comedy debate – winning team: Justine Sless, Jacob Sacher and Louise Baring
JCCV President Jennifer Huppert stated, “This is a major event of Cultural Diversity Week and highlights how Jews and Muslims can work together in good faith and good humour. The aim is to break down stereotypes, and emphasise that we have more in common, than we have differences.
It is also wonderful to announce that JCCV and AIS have agreed to partner on the event for at least three years, starting this year.”
This was the third time the event has been held, following on from the inaugural Jewish – Muslim Comedy Debate in 2013.
A capacity crowd of nearly 300 people were entertained by the very funny debate held in the Swanston Hall at the Melbourne Town Hall. Acting as moderator once again,Father Bob Maguire kept the talented panelists in line. The teams comprised Justine Sless, Louse Baring and Jacob Sacher for the affirmative and Rana Hussain, Michael Shafar and Harun Esse for the negative.
AIS Executive Director Ahmet Keskin stated, “AIS aims to foster and develop community harmony through multicultural and interfaith activities. This sort of event demonstrates very clearly Victorian multiculturalism in practice with a smile. Most importantly we had a lot of fun together.”
JCCV Executive Director David Marlow added, “The Jewish – Muslim Comedy Debate demonstrates that Jews and Muslims can work together, with a smile and in good faith. Through these sorts of activities, we build mutual trust and respect across our communities, plus show a view of our communities that is not often seen by the general public.”
Ms Huppert and Mr Keskin thanked the Victorian State Government and the City of Melbourne for their support of the event.
