THIS week\u2019s International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia was recognised by Ballarat High School.<\/p>\n
To establish an even greater sense of empathy and kindness amongst staff and students, a Rainbow and Ally flag raising ceremony was held, the school was decorated in rainbow colours, and activities were facilitated to develop pupils\u2019 understanding of the LGBTIQA+ experience, gender identities and sexuality.<\/p>\n
An IDAHOBIT barbecue and rainbow doughnuts were enjoyed, students were encouraged to engage with the school\u2019s LGBTIQA+ resources, and make ally pledges of support for display.<\/p>\n
Student and LGBTIQA+ community member Jonah Morganti said the IDAHOBIT events, organised by school psychologist and mental health practitioner Shannon Thompson, emphasised Ballarat High\u2019s \u201caccepting, inclusive\u201d nature.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a safe place for us all. We feel included, we feel seen, and not invisible,\u201d they said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re here and a part of the school. IDAHOBIT recognises that. We\u2019re encouraging our peers to pledge respect and allyship.\u201d<\/p>\n
City of Ballarat mayor and former BHS student Cr Daniel Moloney raised the rainbow and ally flags.<\/p>\n
\u201cSchool can be a tough place for anyone who isn\u2019t out, or has come out. It\u2019s important in your teenage years to have friends and allies who have your back and call out bad behaviour,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBallarat High\u2019s leading the way, making a clear statement about kindness.\u201d<\/p>\n
Throughout the week, and at the ceremony, pupils proudly wore colourful pride flags as capes, while staff took the opportunity to show their allyship wearing rainbow socks, tights, ties and jewellery.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THIS week\u2019s International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia was recognised by Ballarat High School. To establish an even greater sense of empathy and kindness amongst staff and students, a Rainbow and Ally flag raising ceremony was held, the school was decorated in rainbow colours, and activities were facilitated to develop pupils\u2019 understanding of […]<\/p>\n