EMC Community Connection

Koorie Education 

& Engagement

International Day of Elimination of Racial Discrimination

 

EMC does not tolerate racism or discrimination. Having proactive, open discussions about racism helps to address racism when it occurs and prevent it in the future.  This is why during home group this week, students learned about the International Day of Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the cultural diversity at EMC, the impacts of racism and were invited to participate in focus groups to hear from students about actions the College can take moving forwards.

 

At EMC, there are lots of students and staff from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds.  EMC celebrates and values cultural diversity and want the College community to feel connected, protected and respected within their community.  Last year, EMC partnered with One Love Australia to run workshops with all students and staff at EMC.  One Love also went into Langwarrin Primary School, Langwarrin Park Primary School,  and Woodlands Primary School.

 

During this time, students, staff and families from EMC were invited to share their cultural backgrounds.  The dark blue on this map represents the countries that students and staff, and their parents and/or grandparents were born in and/or are connected to.  There are over 32 languages spoken by families at EMC

 

 

There is a passionate team at EMC looking to lead and support a whole school approach to address and prevent racism for 2024 and beyond.  We would love to hear your feedback and listen to the lived experiences of culturally diverse students and allies who may have been impacted the most in this area.

 

To do this, this term we are aiming to organise an opt in student focus group to gather feedback and evidence to plan our next steps.

 

These culturally safe focus groups will also provide students the opportunity to remain involved to help deliver actions for the college now and into the future!

 

If you want to be part of the conversation, complete the short survey below:

https://forms.gle/jbxEz2yKpAAuCFuB6

 

 

UPCOMING DATES

  • Koorie student monthly meeting - 2/5/24
  • Term 2 Koorie Emerging Leaders in Schools (KELiS) at Mornington SC - 6/6/24
  • Dreamtime Mob Gathering @ Richmond FC - 24/5/24
  • National Reconciliation Week - 27/5 - 3/6
  • NAIDOC Week - 7/7 - 14/7
  • Koorie Academy Basketball workshop - 18/7/24

 

 

Research and Anti-Racism Survey

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission is conducting research into experiences of racial discrimination and vilification to better protect the community. The Commission is seeking your help to complete a short survey. The survey is available here, including a tailored version for First Nations people. The survey is translated into many languages and is for people of all ages and backgrounds who have experienced racism. It will take 15–20 minutes to complete.

 

National Reconciliation Week 2024 Theme

Reconciliation Australia has announced the National Reconciliation Week 2024 theme: Now More Than Ever.

 

This year's theme is a reminder to us all, that no matter what, the fight for justice, rights, and First Peoples’ self-determination will and must continue. Throughout Australia’s reconciliation journey there has been many obstacles and disappointments, but the movement has remained. When faced with challenges and division, we must look for further ways to re-engage and re-connect.

 

NAIDOC Theme Announced for 2024 

This year’s theme, chosen by the National NAIDOC Committee, is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud. The theme is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and identity. A call for the reclamation of narratives about the First Peoples of Australia.  NAIDOC Week (7-14 July 2024) celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. First Nations communities, registered businesses, schools and local governments are all encouraged to run an activity or event that directly relates to the 2024 NAIDOC theme.

 

Unfinished Business Exhibition

An exhibition of photographic portraits revealing the stories of 30 First Nations people with lived experience of disability from across Australia. Until Sunday 21 April, Birrarung Gallery at Melbourne Museum.

Find out more here.