Page 3387 - Week 09 - Thursday, 22 August 2019
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
those instances when I have said things that you guys would never have the courage to say.
After October of next year, we may well discover that the Canberra Liberals do not just talk the talk; we will walk the walk as well.
Multicultural affairs—BAPS
MR GUPTA (Yerrabi) (4.03): Today I am delighted to inform the Assembly about the Bocha-sanwasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha organisation, commonly known as BAPS, and the wonderful work they have done for our Canberra community. BAPS is a global group that for over 225 years has promoted harmony between individuals, within families and among diverse communities. For more than 20 years they have held the highest status given by the United Nations to non-government organisations, granting them the ability to participate in UN humanitarian work.
Their goal of collective spiritual progress is led by their spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj now presides as the guru and spiritual guide to countless devotees, spreading his virtues of austerity, self-control, devotion, humility and service. As part of its values, BAPS congregations around the world are inspired to undertake seva or selfless service for the community. I am glad to inform the Assembly that we have some members of BAPS present today in the gallery.
Since 1984 BAPS has expanded across numerous Australian communities. Currently, they have Hindu mandirs across major Australian cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. They also have several centres throughout cities and regional areas, including Canberra. As a proud Hindu, I care about making Australia a more accepting and diverse culture. That is why I am so proud of the work that BAPS have done to unite Australian communities. Since their establishment they have not only contributed to Australia’s faith community but they have given selfless service to the broader Australian society.
ACT Labor shares the belief that we should support those that need help the most. That is why I would like to congratulate BAPS on their excellent work last year in raising $15,000 for the drought relief effort to help our Australian farmers.
As members of the Assembly know, Canberra has a diverse and vibrant multicultural community. Both sides of politics are aware of BAPS’ presence and activities in Canberra over the years and have all attended and presented at BAPS’ weekly congregation events, with children’s language and cultural classes at Ngunnawal Primary School.
The Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Sport and Recreation, Ms Berry, launched and attended one of BAPS’ annual children’s sports days. The BAPS children still fondly remember her personally running alongside and encouraging them in the young children’s sack races.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video