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Vienna, Austria, 28 September 2024 Vienna’s historic Rathaus Festival Hall transformed into a global stage for the International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO)’s Costumes of the World Show, a stunning showcase of cultural diversity through traditional attire. This annual event attracted hundreds of attendees, eager to witness an array of colorful costumes from around the world, each representing the unique identity and heritage of the participants. The message of the evening resonated clearly: Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Inclusivity.
Messages of Inspiration
Josipa Palac, CEO and Founder of ICDO opened the event with a powerful speech emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding and exchange. She reminded the audience that traditional costumes are more than fabric—they symbolize a nation’s history, values, and pride. She further expressed the belief that celebrating differences brings people closer together, bridging gaps and fostering greater empathy among diverse communities.
“By embracing our differences,” Palac said, “we build a world that is more inclusive, more compassionate, and ultimately, more peaceful.” Her message highlighted how events like Costumes of the World Show play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers, allowing cultures to connect and understand one another on a deeper level.
Echoing Palac’s sentiments, Vice Mayor of Vienna Christopher Wiederkehr took the stage, underscoring the importance of Vienna as a multicultural hub. He praised the city’s dedication to inclusivity and the event’s role in celebrating Vienna’s rich international community. Wiederkehr emphasized that the city’s strength lies in its diversity, saying, “Vienna thrives because it welcomes people from all over the world, and events like these show us the beauty of that diversity.” His words affirmed the city’s ongoing commitment to being a model of coexistence, where cultures from every corner of the world are accepted and celebrated.
In his speech, Prof. Mag. Hermann Muecker, adviser to the ICDO Executive Committee, emphasized the profound cultural significance of traditional attire, noting that each costume reflects its people’s history, values, and identity. He highlighted the importance of preserving these traditions in an increasingly globalized world, where understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential for fostering peace and unity. Muecker also praised the event as a powerful platform for intercultural dialogue, bringing nations together through the shared appreciation of heritage and diversity.
Invigorating and dazzling presentations
The event featured a breathtaking parade of costumes representing countries across five continents, with more than 190 traditional, handcrafted costumes from 35+ countries. Among the most notable participants were Igorot Austria, showcasing the traditional attire of the Philippines’ indigenous Igorot community. Their vibrant costumes, rich with intricate patterns and deep symbolism, captivated the audience and highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous cultures.
Peru’s delegation brought their culture to life with traditional Andean clothing, full of bright colors and beautiful woven textiles that reflected the Inca civilization’s enduring influence. Brazil energized the crowd with its iconic Carnival costumes, bursting with feathers, sequins, and lively spirit, while Thailand showcased elegant silk garments adorned with gold detailing, embodying the country’s royal and cultural history.
Burkina Faso made a striking appearance with costumes highlighting traditional African textiles’ craftsmanship, showcasing the profound connection between fashion, community, and heritage. The vibrant colors and designs of their costumes told the story of their land and people, making a bold statement about the beauty of African traditions.
A Fusion of Cultures
The event went beyond mere fashion—it was a fusion of cultures through performances, music, and food. Attendees were treated to traditional dances from each participating country, while local and international cuisine was available, offering the world’s flavors in one venue. This holistic cultural experience made Costumes of the World more than a fashion show—a celebration of shared humanity.
Fostering Understanding of Diversity and Inclusivity
As the event concluded, the message of unity, shared by Josipa Palac and Vice Mayor Christopher Wiederkehr, lingered in the minds of all who attended. Through the beauty of costumes, the music of diverse traditions, and the coming together of nations, the Costumes of the World Show reminded everyone that no matter our differences, we are all part of a global community.
ICDO
ICDO was established in Vienna, Austria, by two eminent professionals with international working experience in international relations, intergovernmental organizations, and international corporations, willing to take action, use their experience, and close the cultural gap between people through research workshops, events, and social and development projects.
Their vision was recognized and supported by prominent professionals in the field, benefactors, institutions, organizations, governments, and professionals from different backgrounds ranging from business development, finance, project and event management, art, design, etc., as well as their fellow Webster University and the University of Vienna alumni, which contributed to the realization of ICDOs projects and objectives. https://www.icdo.at/
ICDO’s ongoing work to promote cultural diversity continues to foster a world where every culture is valued and respected and the 2024 event at Vienna’s Rathaus was a brilliant demonstration of this mission.
Photos: Ana Maria Langer
About the Author
Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas, President of Bikol Society Austria (BSA) from 2016 to 2024, is a dedicated leader in the Filipino and international communities across multiple organizations. She is the Chairperson of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora-Austria (ENFiD-Austria), Board Member of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora (ENFiD), Founder and former president of the Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), Adviser, and Former President of the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF). She is also a Board Member of the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), Councillor and Liaison for the Philippines of the European Police Association (EPA), and Auditor of the Vienna International Centre Gastronomy Club (VIC GC). She is also a member of the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) and received the Most Influential Filipina Women in the World (Global FWN100™) “Behind the Scenes” award in 2019.
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