Kildare Ministries Student Social Justice Seminar

Students reflected on their two day experience at Amberley Retreat Center from Thursday 6 To Friday 7 June. Over the next three months, we will hear from our students and learn how this event has made an impact on their lives. Fiona will share her reflection for our June edition. 

It was interesting to learn how to help the unfortunate and implement these initiatives into our future social justice programs. The easy going environment enabled us to participate in the interactive activities. The icebreaker was a great way to start the two day event, which enabled us to meet students from other Kildare Ministries schools.

The camp gave us a sense of sacredness and belonging. Through the activities, we were given an opportunity to delved deep into the main objective of the seminar “we don't see things as they are, we see things as they are.” 

A takeaway from this experience would be the memories of the students I met as I'd been able to collect their personal contacts for further communication in future. I received positive feedback upon my interaction with Ms Taylor from Clonard College during the speed talks for my comprehension and intelligence in regards to social justice issues that I’m most passionate about - it being the First Nations ability to participate in the criminal justice system. 

This further encouraged me to share my knowledge with others, advocating for different causes as well as sharing the work the Marian LEOs have achieved over the past few years. 

The session I enjoyed most would either be the speed talking activity with other individuals of differing backgrounds or the immersive experience where we put ourselves into the positions of the elders of the nation, gaining a shared sense of sorrow from the traumatic events from the colonisation of Australia. 

I’ve also taken away the importance of words and the terms you use when addressing the disadvantaged. This was highlighted in the Dignity presentation, where the speaker emphasised using empathetic language, such as saying "experiencing homelessness" instead of "the homeless," to avoid harmful labels. This insight left a lasting impression on me.

Ms Bernadette Casey

Assistant to the Principal - Faith