Carlton midfielder Dale Thomas was on hand at the MCG today for the AFL’s launch of the upcoming Multicultural Round.

The round will promote respect for diversity among the Victorian community, including the AFL ‘Many Cultures, One Game’ Multicultural Festival at Yarra Park on August 8, to coincide with Carlton’s Round 19 clash with Collingwood.

Thomas was joined by Premier Daniel Andrews, Collingwood President Eddie McGuire, Essendon captain Jobe Watson and Melbourne midfielder Jimmy Toumpas.

AFL General Manager Clubs and AFL Operations Travis Auld announced that the Victorian government will partner with the league to help stage the festival outside the MCG.

“Thanks to the support of the Victorian government and support partner Australia Post, we are proud to be hosting the Many Cultures, One Game Festival which will feature entertainment from multicultural communities, food stalls, and free activities for families to enjoy.

“As Australia continues to change and welcome new communities – so must the AFL, and through partnerships with community and Government, we can continue to be part of bringing people together, building social capital and acceptance,” said Mr Auld.

As part of the announcement, Mr Andrews also launched a new social media campaign – Embrace Diversity – to coincide with the AFL Multicultural Round.

The campaign, which has support from stakeholders across the business, community, philanthropic and not-for-profit sectors, will encourage support for cultural diversity across various social media channels.