Supporting and Being Supported
I write this on the eve of another lockdown due to rising COVID cases. I have witnessed a lot of emotions from staff, parents and students – anger, frustration, resignation and anxiety. I have also seen amazing behaviour – self-care, consideration, preparation, adaptability and resilience. A community of people coming together to support each other through hard times.
IDAHOBIT Day
IDAHOBIT Day (17th May) – the international day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia, highlights another day where support can matter so much. Being an ally against the discrimination is important. “This discrimination could be based on your sexual orientation (who you’re attracted to); gender identity (how you define yourself, irrespective of your biological sex), gender expression (how you express your gender through your clothing, hair or make-up), or sex characteristics (for example, your genitals, chromosomes, reproductive organs, or hormone levels.)”https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/discrimination/lgbt-rights/
National Volunteer Week
The past month of May has been a full month – where there was a lot of recognise. National Volunteer Week (17-23rd May) – those who give their time and energy to supporting their community. “Never has this been more evident than after a year where Australia has dealt with drought, devastating bushfires, floods and then a global pandemic. Amidst the pandemic, while many of us stayed home, volunteers continued to deliver essential services, organise food packages and offer care, comfort and more to support the well-being of Australians. Volunteers make our communities stronger, especially during times of need, crisis or isolation.”https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/get-involved/nvw/
Sorry Day
National Sorry Day (26th May) – this day “remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as ‘The Stolen Generations’. National Sorry Day is a day to acknowledge the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors and reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for our people and nation”.https://nationaltoday.com/national-sorry-day/
Victoria Police
Year 7 and 8 also had visitors from Victoria Police members come and speak to them about the importance of community in keeping each other safe and online safety. They also spoke about how important it is that if you find yourself in trouble that you tell a trusted adult to help support you. They left students with a key message for each other: I’ve got your back. For more information on cyber safety for parents and students look here: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/bullystoppers/Pages/advicecybersafe.aspx
A common theme runs through all these events. Support.
Support can be shown through understanding others, educating ourselves, giving an encouraging word or helping hand, being there, being present, having conversations, taking time and giving energy.
How can you show support today?