Human Rights Workshop

Our experience at the Melbourne Uni let us interact with year 8s from other schools who shared our same interest in human rights law. The program consisted of several presentations with experts who directed our attention towards many neglected communities, who face situations that undermine basic human rights. In the first session, Professor John Tobin introduced us to the concept of the right to an identity. Together, we also examined the rise of a globalised economy, focusing particularly on cocoa production. The wrath of consumerism burdening the weak producers. 

Afterward, we had a program with Katie Robertson who spoke to us about statelessness. We analysed the causes of the condition and how countries can improve their laws in order to prevent people getting affected. Ms. Robertson also shared experiences from when she started a legal clinic to support stateless children. Later, we had Mr. Eddie Cubillo, an Aboriginal man who represented his people and culture in law, and Ms. Jaynaya Dwyer. They spoke about the indigenous rights we have in Australia. We mainly concentrated on how these laws affected young Indigenous Australians, who make up half of the youth population who get incarcerated. Our final presentation was by Lee Carnie, who talked to us about translating our ideas into action. They shared many of their personal experiences with advocacy and encouraged us to stand up for what we believe in. We had several fun activities, like creating a campaign plan for the injustices we were passionate about fighting against. 

The workshop made us explore many crises and perspectives that triggered our interest. Discussing solutions to issues that affect our world made us feel more motivated to bring change. Thank you to Melbourne Uni, staff and speakers for hosting an amazing event. That encouraged young minds like ours to think differently. A big thank you to Ms. Robertson and the MGC team for giving us an incredible opportunity like this!

Anna Issac , Year 8