Carlton’s multicultural ambassador Dale Thomas says he’s “proud” to be part of the AFL’s Multicultural Round.

The round, which was launched on Thursday morning, promotes respect for diversity among the Victorian community.

“A game of football brings everyone together – that in itself is a wonderful thing, so to be a part of it and promote it is something I’m certainly proud of,” Thomas said.

As part of the festivities the AFL will hold a ‘Many Cultures, One Game’ Multicultural Festival at Yarra Park on August 8, to coincide with Carlton’s Round 19 clash with Collingwood.

“I think it’s just a fantastic opportunity – the Carlton Collingwood rivalry and having the multicultural festival on that night – it’s going to be a great opportunity to show what our great game came do.

“It (football) brings everyone together no matter what gender or race – it’s fantastic that the AFL can be part of it and as a player I can get behind it,” Thomas said.

Carlton’s history is filled with players with multicultural heritage, just think of Jesaulenko, Koutoufides and Hana.

“When you see not just the player’s heritage but the staff as well, it shows we’re a multicultural group at Carlton, just like the rest of Melbourne and the rest of the state,” Thomas said.

Carlton takes on Collingwood on Saturday 8 August at the MCG in what will be the showcase game for the AFL’s Multicultural Round.