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The National Rugby League (NRL) has launched their Multicultural Round 2024 - a week-long event celebrating culture, heritage and inclusion in the Rugby League community.

The round kicks off on Thursday 21st March - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, known as 'Harmony Day' in Australia.

First established in 2022 and part of the NRL's annual Inclusion Month throughout March, Multicultural Round's central theme is "Stronger Together" - recognising that Rugby League's strength comes from its rich diversity, ability to unite cultures and welcome players, participants and fans of all backgrounds.

The NRL's latest data shows greater cultural diversity throughout the game than ever before. At grassroots, Club Rugby League participants represent some 236 different heritages, with 7% born overseas, 18% identifying as Pasifika and 19% identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.

In the NRL Telstra Premiership, the 2024 playing group represents 63 different national heritages, with almost a third of players (30%) born outside Australia and almost half (47%) having at least one parent born overseas. 48% players have Pasifika heritage, while 12% identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.

The expanded NRLW playing group now represents 48 different national heritages, with almost a third (29%) born outside of Australia and half (49%) with at least one parent born overseas. Exactly half (50%) identify as Pasifika while 17% identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.

NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo notes "from grassroots to the elite, players, officials, volunteers and fans, there is natural and authentic diversity across the Rugby League community.

"This Multicultural Round, our message is clear - Rugby League gains strength from diversity. No matter your background, identity or where you come from, everyone is welcome in our game. Rugby League is the greatest game for all."

Players and fans are encouraged to celebrate their cultures and learn about others throughout the week, while at games across the weekend, Multicultural Round celebrations will be unique to each home club and its local community.

Image. Credit: https://www.nrl.com/

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