Living Justice Living Peace

Justice isn't just an ideal; it's a principle that underpins the very essence of our humanity. It's about recognising the inherent worth of every individual and ensuring that they are treated with equity and respect. As we continue to explore the facets of justice this year, we turn our focus towards pressing issues like homelessness, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, standing in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and moving slowly and living sustainably, as we walk through this life together. All our actions become important to pave the way for a world where everyone is afforded the dignity they deserve.

St Joseph’s Op Shop

As we engage in discussions about living sustainably, through the development of our St Joseph’s College Op shop we are invited to make sustainable choices with our clothing. Our younger generation has been doing this well for a while and there is a lot that we can learn from their thrift shopping, bargain seeking and more sustainable ways of living that can benefit all of us. By our community bringing in clothing to donate that they no longer wear, they have decreased the number of items that end up in landfill. 

Did you know the average Australian disposes 23 kilograms of clothing to landfill each year? Our journey towards a more just and peaceful world is intrinsically linked to the choices we make as consumers. By embracing sustainable clothing and living practices, we acknowledge our responsibility to protect both our global home and the people who inhabit it. Every small decision in favor of sustainability is a step towards a more balanced and respectful future. The St Joseph’s Op shop has been operating during the last week of term out of the Hall and we have already managed to provide over 100 items of clothing a second lease on life and raised over $300! It was a wonderful initiative by our leaders that has been supported by staff and students.    

Vinnies Sleepout

The challenge of homelessness touches the very core of our commitment to justice and compassion. Our senior students were invited to embrace the Vinnies Sleepout, united together in shedding light on the plight of homelessness. Armed with sleeping bags, mats, swags, and a shared purpose, they braved a night of little sleep to highlight awareness of those sleeping rough. They gained a glimpse into the challenging reality faced by the unhoused within our local and broader community. Through this experience we are hoping it will ignite a sense of social responsibility, illuminating the many hurdles confronted by those without shelter or a place to call home.  

Indigenous Voice to Parliament

At the core of who we are at St Joseph's, is welcoming and encouraging an inclusive environment for all, and therefore it is no surprise that we have been running sessions on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. The sessions have been operated by our very own Claire Hogan, senior Legal Studies teacher, highlighting the upcoming referendum that some of our students will be enrolled to vote in. The Yes Vote for us is a stride towards acknowledging the rich contributions of Indigenous communities and ensuring that their perspectives shape our shared future.

It has been an incredibly busy term with our students throwing themselves into a range of social justice initiatives. Just being around young people with such a strong passion on issues facing our world is incredibly invigorating.  We look forward to working with our next social justice warriors next term.  

It would be remiss of me to not finish by thanking our senior student leaders for their incredible service as they undergo their final weeks in our community. I, for one, am going to miss their energy and collaboration. Your tireless efforts in promoting social justice and your willingness to assist others has not gone unnoticed. Your leadership style sets an inspiring example for your peers and enriches our school environment in countless ways. Your empathy and genuine care for others truly has made a difference. For this I thank you. 

Wishing you all a busy or restful break, whichever you are needing these holidays. 

Peace,

Brooke O'Brien

Living Justice Living Peace Leader and Co Student Agency Coordinator