Peace Day Ceremony

On Sunday (26/02/23), Hamish and I were fortunate to attend the Rotary Peace Day ceremony which took place at the Memorial Gardens. As part of this celebration, Hamish and I spoke on behalf of Kildare about various initiatives which promote unity and diversity in our inclusive community. We outlined initiatives such as Harmony Day, The End Racism Project, Refugee Week, and the rewriting of the College’s Acknowledgement of Country, to update its language and ensure its ‘appropriateness, respectfulness and sincerity’. Kildare strives to act according to our motto “Live the Truth”, rejoicing in the diversity of every person and seeking out ways to promote justice by creating greater dialogue in our school about issues affecting us all, in turn motivating these initiatives and many more. 

Rotary is an international community-based organisation with various branches around the world, including Wagga, which seeks to take action to create lasting change - across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Rotary stressed the importance of peace as the overarching goal. Peace is more than just the absence of war, rather it is a way of being, of interacting with others, and living on this planet, demanding the need for concerted efforts to achieve the common vision of a life of dignity and well-being for all.

Initiating the ceremony, Hamish and I, along with other schools in Wagga, walked in carrying various flags that represent our multicultural diversity. During this event, we listened to the other schools speak, learning about their projects, getting inspiration for initiatives we hope to adopt and build on here at Kildare, and learnt about Rotary and their projects that embrace diversity and promote inclusivity, justice and peace. Further, Rotary recognised numerous very deserving recipients of the Rotary Peace award from Wagga and the nearby surrounding area, who have “transformed a concept like peace to a reality through service” (Rotary). 

Ultimately, this ceremony taught Hamish and myself about the importance of teamwork and joining forces (with our community) to promote a culture of peace. We are challenged today to celebrate diversity and advocate for peace where injustice is prevalent - in our school, local community and world.  

Ultimately, it was an absolute honour and privilege to be given the opportunity to attend this event.

Rohan Cummins | Year 12 Student