The Year of Cultural Diversity, dedicated to the cultural diversity of Estonian communities and people, was launched on 6 January in the town of Haapsalu.
The theme year is organised by the state-run Estonian Integration Foundation and, according to the country’s current minister of culture, Heidy Purga, “opens the door to the world of different cultures living in our common country”.
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The aim of the theme year is to encourage every Estonian to become more aware of, appreciate and value cultural diversity – to see Estonia as the common home of many cultures and to cooperate more actively with each other.
The first event was held on 6 January at the Haapsalu Fair with craftsmen, singers and dancers from different parts of Estonia.
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The Year of Cultural Diversity will continue with events throughout the year; the Integration Foundation has opened a calendar on the theme year’s website where it is possible to add thematic events free of charge.