Merri-Bek Councillor Katerine Theodosis has called for Council to take the lead in collecting and curating stories from the city’s diverse migrant communities — from those who arrived generations ago to more recent residents.
“As our community changes and grows, we should find ways to record those stories — stories of resilience and hope,” Theodosis said at a Council meeting on Wednesday 8 October.
“Stories of the people who helped build and shape our vibrant city into what it is today.”
She said the project would build on earlier initiatives that have documented aspects of Merri-bek’s multicultural past, aiming to expand the collection and present the stories through an arts and cultural program.
Theodosis described the proposal as “a way to celebrate our proud migrant history and preserve these stories for future generations as a lesson in perseverance and courage.”
Deputy Mayor Helen Politis spoke in support of the motion, noting the significant contributions of migrants to the city’s development.
The adopted motion will see the council explore options to build upon existing materials and resources that capture migrant stories and history — including those connected to residents, community clubs, buildings and local landmarks.
It will also examine ways to showcase the stories through Merri-bek’s libraries and cultural spaces.
Council will begin work on the project soon.
Theodosis has also encouraged community members with a migrant background to “keep an eye out” for opportunities to take part.
