In unity and understanding, the entire college community came together to celebrate National Reconciliation Week in a special Chapel earlier this month. This annual gathering serves as a focal point for fostering reconciliation within the college, and this year's theme, "Be a Voice for Generations," and the parallel between the pursuit of reconciliation and our belief in God's reconciling love for His people, resonated deeply.
From the youngest participants in the Early Learning Centre to Primary and Secondary students, the event demonstrated BAC's commitment to healing historical wounds and building a more inclusive society and an environment of respect, understanding, and harmony.
A Gateway to Reconciliation
The Chapel began with remarkable gesture by Year 6 student, Alexander, who invited the audience to join him in acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land, setting the tone for a spiritually enriching experience.
Children from BAC Early Learning, the youngest participants of the event, captured the hearts of the audience with an enchanting rendition of Taba Naba. A traditional song from the Eastern Islands in the Torres Strait, sung in the language of Meriam Mir, it describes the joy of everyday life and going out on the reef to fish. Dressed in Reconciliation Week t-shirts, the children's performance left no doubt that the future generation is dedicated to this spirit of reconciliation.
Acknowledging History and the Ability to Transform
Secondary students Sarah, Edward, Ella, Abraham, and Erin then shone light on tragic events in Australia's history, once forgotten, and how more recent events have moved reconciliation forward. They spoke eloquently about how understanding and learning from the past can shape a more inclusive future.
Harmony: Music and Sign Language
The Primary choir took the audience on an emotional journey through music, combining voice with Auslan sign language. They were joined by Auslan-using groundsman, Mr Herbert, who had taught the choir how to sign. Their performance of Inanay, a song thought to be in Yorta Yorta (the language of one of the Aboriginal tribes of Victoria) is believed to be about a goanna (gupuana). The 'choo' is shooing the goanna away. The choir then followed this with I am Australian, reinforcing the values of inclusivity and unity.
Thought-Provoking Panel Discussion
Mr. Jackson invited Secondary students Sanuka, Caleb, Odessa, and Arlo, as well as Mr. Murray, to share practical steps towards reconciliation. The discussion encouraged students and teachers to reflect on their personal role in promoting reconciliation, both within the school community and beyond. The panelists underscored the power of education and empathy as pivotal catalysts for positive change, inspiring everyone present to take action.
God's Message of Reconciliation Echoed
Finally, College captains Mian and Oliver drew attention to the Biblical parallels of reconciliation, connecting the teachings of the Bible to the urgent need for reconciliation between Australia's First Nations peoples and the broader population. They urged everyone to work towards the healing historical wounds, forging a more inclusive society, and embodying the transformative power of God's reconciling love.
The collective commitment of our College to this path of transformation is a source of pride and a testament to the unifying power of education, understanding, and empathy.
