John XXIII College Newsletter

From the Principal

The theme for this week’s National Reconciliation Week, ‘Now More Than Ever’, is a reminder of the importance and immediacy of the search for justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Our students embraced this search by participating in a range of activities designed to deepen understanding and respect for the rich cultures, histories and achievements of our First Nations people.

 

For background, National Reconciliation Week recalls the Referendum held on May 27, 1967, which determined that Indigenous Australians be recognised as part of the broader Australian population. The week also recalls the 1992 Mabo High Court decision recognising the existence of native title, and the 1997 Report ‘Bringing them Home’, examining the forced separation of Indigenous Australian children from their families.

 

The National Agreement on Closing the Gap (The National Agreement) identifies 19 national socio-economic targets across 17 socio-economic outcome areas that have an impact on life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The most recent information detailing progress towards achieving these targets, shows a deterioration in relation to:

  • Reducing the rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults held in incarceration.
  • The significant and sustained reduction of suicide of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
  • Reducing the rate of overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care.

The time is ‘now more than ever’ for the real commitment by all Australians to the unfinished task of reconciliation.

 

Please see a short clip highlighting the College’s own commitment towards reconciliation. Production is underway for our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) video which will be launched towards the end of the year.  The words of the voice over for that video are included below. I extend my thanks to Janeen Murphy, Lisa Martella, Chris Morris, Daisy Farley, the HASS Learning Area and all of our staff involved in leading the range of engaging student activities this week in particular.

At John XXIII College, we are committed to reconciliation, inspired by the Gospels and the spirit of John XXIII, Mary Ward, and Ignatius of Loyola. Our College motto, Seek Justice, guides us to foster right relationships with each other and our environment. This National Reconciliation Week, we join Australians in embracing the 2024 theme: 'Now More Than Ever.' This theme reminds us of the ongoing need for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

 

We pledge to work in partnership with First Nations Peoples, enhancing our community's understanding and respect for their rich cultures, histories, and achievements. Our vision is to create a just, inclusive, and harmonious society, where the contributions of Indigenous peoples are rightfully celebrated. By acknowledging past injustices and striving for a future of healing and unity, we honour the dignity of all people. Together, we can build bridges, promote healing, and appreciate the strength of Indigenous cultures and traditions.

 

Join us in our commitment to reconciliation, as we work towards a world that reflects justice and equality. Now, more than ever, we must stand together.

 

Finally, our thoughts and prayers are extended to all those impacted by the horrific events in Floreat last week.

 

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,

and let Your perpetual light shine upon them.

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed

rest in peace.

Amen.

 

Daniel Mahon

Principal