Editorial

Dear friends of Kildare Ministries, 

On the 2nd of June, the KM Trustees invited KM Principals and students to share their experiences of marginalisation based on gender, and gender identification, in our schools. As part of our KM gospel values and the Living Justice Living Peace charter, we are committed as a KM community to accompany those suffering marginalisation and discrimination, to walk with them in solidarity – to understand what it is like to walk in their shoes and begin to recognise the patterns of thinking and behaviour that perpetuate their suffering and seek to relieve it. The students and principals who spoke provided valuable context and greater understanding for everyone present, and their presence of mind, courage and sincerity produced an even stronger desire to listen deeply and foster a clear sense of unity of purpose among everyone present.

Included in the discussion was the issue of consent and respectful relationships. Students noted that consent is a part of everyday relationships where people seek to understand each other by asking for others permission, and perspective on questions, rather than assuming a powerful role in decision making. They also pointed out that classroom learning, while invaluable and necessary, can sometimes stop short of producing cultural change throughout the school, particularly when the norms of wider society move against it. In response to these societal norms, students felt that it was important to begin consent education earlier in the schooling years to prepare mindsets and galvanise individual intentions and responses toward respect. They also pointed out that detailed dialogue and conversation about what constitutes consent, is carried out at all levels and is crucial to being able to reduce emotional, verbal, and physical assault. Their courage in confronting this experience and transforming it into detailed learning and action will prove to be deeply impactful. 

The conversation then turned to personal gender identification, and we listened to brave students explain their experiences and feelings in their own personal journeys. Inclusion by way of counselling and support, dedicated procedure, and policy, as well as more far-reaching education throughout the whole school community were highlighted as key actions. The power of language to isolate people, as well as unite them, was also pointed out, and was recognised as a key part of learning to speak clearly and sensitively with one another on the issue of gender diversity. Learning ‘the language’ of gender diversity with respect, allows for richer talks and deeper understanding and compassion between people.

All of our school communities are dealing with these issues consistently and with great sensitivity, professionalism, and discernment. It was so apparent that all our school leaders have the student’s wellbeing at the centre of their hearts and work. It is a journey, and a difficult one at times. We gain so much from hearing how each other is approaching and dealing with difficult, new, or complex situations. There is so much learning and support available among us all.

The session proved to be a deeply moving and inspiring moment for us as a KM community, and the Trustees committed to ratifying a new statement of inclusion as a way of supporting the ongoing conversations and giving greater confidence to our communities to continue. This statement is currently ‘under construction’ and will be published as a draft in coming weeks.

We are indeed striving to be people of listening hearts to uphold the wholeness  - the dignity and beauty - of each unique human person. God, let us come to know ‘the fire within’ and ‘trust your opening’  path in all things.

Go gently all. 

Renee Oberin

Mission Leader

Kildare Ministries