The Invisible Celebrations: Navigating Cultural and Religious Festivals as a Migrant in Australia

08 Apr The Invisible Celebrations: Navigating Cultural and Religious Festivals as a Migrant in Australia

Contemporary Australia is multicultural, made up of a rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs. The 2021 census found 29.3% of all Australians were born overseas while more than half (51.5%) of the population have a parent born overseas. But for the many, many migrants who call this land home, the experience can be challenging. Cultural and religious festivals play a significant role in our sense of belonging. Yet, for some, these celebrations remain hidden, obscured by the mainstream narrative.

What might be the impact of limited visibility on migrants of non-dominant cultures in Australia? We take a look below.

Imagine stepping off the plane into a new world— where the new and unexpected replaces the familiar rhythms of your homeland. For migrants, the journey is one of adaptation, resilience, and discovery. Cultural and religious festivals become touchpoints that reconnect to the ‘old world.’ And to parts of themselves that feel less understood here.

Migrants can find themselves walking a tightrope; a fine balance between assimilation and preserving cultural and religious roots. Festivals play an important role in maintaining and expressing cultural identity. The psychological significance of these celebrations goes beyond mere traditions. They are a source of strength, resilience, and a vital link to one’s roots in a new environment. It’s a way of teaching their Australian children too, for intergenerational connection.

Cultural and religious festivals are more than occasions for celebration. They serve as communal anchors, fostering a profound sense of connection and belonging. The shared experiences during these festivities create bonds within communities. They contribute to a collective identity. The psychological benefits include better social connection, increased feelings of support, and a positive impact on mental well-being.

Sadly, not all festivals receive equal attention. While talk of Christmas and Easter is hard to escape, other celebrations receive less public attention. Eid al-Fitr, Diwali, Lunar New Year, and Hanukkah often occur without the awareness of Australia’s mainstream. They can be totally overlooked by our workplaces, our neighbours, or the professionals involved in our care. The lack of visibility can lead to feelings of isolation and a longing for the familiar.

Invisibility can take a toll. Imagine celebrating Eid or Diwali with quiet devotion while the world around you buzzes with Christmas cheer. Imagine abstaining daily from food and drink through Ramadan without any sensitivity to this from those around you.  This invisibility, that exists in parts of Australian culture, has far-reaching psychological implications, contributing to a sense of cultural disconnect. It can impact mental health, which can result in emotional isolation, identity struggles, and reduced psychological well-being through feelings of loneliness and alienation.

Loneliness, akin to hunger or thirst, signals a need for social nourishment. Loneliness isn’t merely an emotional state; it has tangible effects on mental health. Studies reveal that feeling isolated increases the risk of depression and anxiety. As we make space in the public discourse for a plurality of religious and cultural festivals, we should do so recognising that visibility isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline.

Human beings are inherently social and as such, need to feel a connection to our communities.

That’s why visibility matters.

When we acknowledge cultural and religious festivals, migrants experience a sense of belonging, finding comfort in shared traditions, connecting with others who understand the journey, and celebrate our heritage. Visibility fosters empathy, dispels stereotypes, and enriches the Australian cultural landscape.

Therefore, advocating for increased visibility of cultural and religious festivals is not just a matter of acknowledgment,  it is a psychological imperative. When these celebrations are recognized and embraced, it fosters a more inclusive society. Increased visibility serves as a catalyst for breaking down barriers, reducing feelings of isolation, and promoting a sense of belonging. The psychological benefits extend beyond the individual. We can positively influence the broader community by encouraging empathy and understanding.

As we sip chai at Diwali, share a plate of baklava at Eid, or light the menorah at Hanukkah, let’s remember that visibility matters.

Let’s be curious and compassionate.

By acknowledging and celebrating festivals we engage with one another’s stories and weave a richer, more compassionate tapestry, one where we all can feel more connected, more whole, and more accepted.

The psychological impact of limited visibility of migrant festivals in Australia is profound. Recognising these celebrations for visibility is crucial for a more psychologically supportive society. At Vida Psychology, we are available to those in our community who need a safe space to work through the impact of acculturation and feelings of loneliness. We invite our community to reflect on the psychological aspects of cultural and religious visibility, to share their experiences, and engage in dialogue.