Deakin University Hosts 15th Annual Iftar Dinner Celebrating Unity and Dialogue
On 5 March 2025, Deakin University, in partnership with the Australian Intercultural Society and the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation (ADI), hosted its 15th annual Iftar Dinner at Deakin Downtown. The evening brought together a diverse audience of academics, faith leaders, students, and community representatives for a night of reflection, connection, and shared values.
The evening opened with Deakin Distinguished Professor and ADI Director Fethi Mansouri as MC. He spoke on the enduring significance of Ramadan and the importance of events like the Iftar in reaffirming Australia’s multicultural ethos.
“Events such as Iftar dinners are crucial in signalling that our individual commitment for and collective orientation towards an inclusive and respectful society is as strong as ever,” Professor Mansouri said.
Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin welcomed guests and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering peace, inclusion, and mutual respect.
The keynote speech was delivered by Mr Peter Khalil MP, Federal Member for Wills, who offered powerful reflections on social cohesion and multiculturalism in today’s Australia. Drawing on personal experiences, Khalil spoke about the importance of belonging, the dangers of populism and division, and the role individuals play in building a cohesive society.
“Social cohesion doesn’t happen by accident. It’s driven by the goodwill and efforts of those involved,” he said, highlighting the responsibility of all sectors, from community to media, to promote inclusion and unity.
He concluded by commending Deakin University and the Australian Intercultural Society for their ongoing leadership in promoting interfaith dialogue.
The evening ended with a vote of thanks from AIS Executive Director Ahmet Keskin, who acknowledged the strength of long-standing partnerships and the importance of continuing these conversations.
Now in its 15th year, the Deakin Iftar continues to serve as a powerful reminder that respect, empathy, and community are at the heart of a strong, democratic society.