Stories from the Library

We have been learning about Harmony Week in our library lessons. 

During Harmony Week, from the 18th to the 24th March, Australians can choose to wear something orange to show their support for cultural diversity and an inclusive Australia. 

An orange giraffe, who made his way from Dubbo Zoo to John Paul II, has been of great interest. Orange, the symbol representing Harmony Week, signifies social communication and meaningful conservations. The intricately beaded giraffe was made by Beads for Wildlife, whose profits go directly to the women who create the beadwork in Kenya. This enterprise creates a market for a traditional product, allowing communities to earn an income without damaging the local environment.

Vibrant picture books, Whoever you are, Tayta’s Secret Ingredient and We are all Equal, allowed us to read about and discuss our multicultural community living peacefully together. In our classes, an interesting survey of our students illustrated this cultural diversity, with students, parents and grandparents coming to Australia from many different countries. 

During our assemblies we have also been learning about the work of Caritas Australia and Project Compassion. Caritas is an aid agency of the Australian Catholic Church working in many countries to eradicate poverty and injustice.

We are happy that we can all learn and play together in harmony at John Paul II.

Kathryn Jaeger

Teacher Librarian and Inklings Extension