Justice

Reconciliation & Refugee Week Initiatives

It has been a hive of activity in the Justice Group lately as our students lead the way in fostering a culture of empathy, awareness, and action within the Academy. From high-level policy work to creative community events, here is a glimpse of what our students are currently working on:

Developing our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) We are incredibly proud to announce that a dedicated working group of students across Years 7 to 12 has begun collaborating with Ms. Hale to develop the Academy’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). A RAP is a formal commitment to reconciliation, and having our students at the table ensures that the voices of the next generation are driving our efforts to build meaningful relationships with First Nations peoples. This group is looking at how we can further embed Indigenous perspectives into our daily school life and ensure our Acknowledgement of Country remains a heartfelt and purposeful practice.

Upcoming Awareness Weeks The energy in our meetings is high as we prepare for two significant events in our school calendar: National Reconciliation Week and Refugee Week.

National Reconciliation Week – 27 May to 03 June To celebrate and educate, our student-led working groups are planning:
- The Sorry Day Scavenger Hunt: An interactive way for students across the school to engage with the history and significance of the Stolen Generations and First Nations history and culture.
- Cultural Storytelling: Students are curating a selection of digital Dreamtime stories to share with the school community, ensuring these ancient narratives continue to be heard in a modern context.
- Indigenous Bake Sale: We are currently researching recipes that highlight native ingredients to raise funds for The Opening The Doors Foundation.
Refugee Week - 14 June – 20 June In solidarity with those seeking safety and a new start, the Justice Group is organising:
- "March for Refugees" Flag Activity: A visual mentor group project to show our collective support that acknowledges the refugees that we accept into Australia.
- Advocacy & Awareness: Students are designing flyers for a Refugee Week Food Drive to support the Asylum Seeker Resource Center Foodbank and a Casual Clothes Day, alongside coordinating a guest speaker.
- Global Flavours Bake Sale: Highlighting sweets and treats from countries that many of Australia’s refugees call home.

Through these initiatives, our students are living out our Mercy Values of compassion and justice. Whether they are cutting creating flyers or drafting anti-racism messages, their dedication to making the Academy an inclusive space is inspiring.

We look forward to sharing the results of these projects with the wider community soon!

Sewing Circle at Mercy Hub

Looking for a space to slow down, learn something new, and create alongside others? Join our free five-week Sewing Circle—a relaxed and welcoming space for all skill levels.

Whether you’re just starting out or picking it up again, you’ll learn basic stitching skills and simple sewing techniques while connecting with others in the community.

Date: Thursdays, 14 May– 11 June

Time: 2.00pm–4.00pm

Venue: Mercy Hub, 617 Nicholson St, Carlton North

All materials provided and no experience needed. Places are limited—register at admin@mercyhub.org.au

Coming Events

FIRE Carriers Excursion: 12 May (FIRE Carrier Member and those intending to become a FIRE Carrier)
Kidsview Conference: 15 May (selected students from Year 7 -9)
Seeds of Justice Conference: 20 - 21 May (Selected Year 10 - 12 students)
Reconciliation Week: 27 May - 03 June
Refugee Week: 14 June – 20 June
Community Action, Day 2: 16 June (Entire Year 10 Cohort)

Ms Mel Sachanandani

Justice Leader