Harmony Week
³ûÖÊÓƵ celebrated unity in diversity this week, honouring the myriad ethnic and cultural backgrounds that make up the School and are a significant source of our strength.
The ³ûÖÊÓƵ student population represents a melting pot of cultures. One in six of our girls was born in a different corner of the world, many others have parents born overseas. When they return home at the end of a School day, they might switch from English to one of 25 different languages and experience the influences of one of 27 different countries.
We shone a light on this cultural mosaic in the Senior School Principal’s Assembly held on Tuesday 19 March. Following Languages Captain Ulyssia’s speech about science, languages and the importance of embracing other’s backgrounds, Greek students, Eleni and Stephanie, took the stage. They led the audience on a journey through their grandparents' courageous decision to leave the island of Kythira and start a new life in Australia in the 1940s. Through sharing the sights, sounds, and aromas of their grandparents' home, they invited us into their cultural experiences, including the buzzing energy of a Greek kitchen, and the mouthwatering dishes that have been passed down for generations. “Let me tell you, there's nothing like our grandmother's salads or oven-baked dishes, while our grandfather's lamb on the spit, is to die for,” they said.
Next, were Carla and Diana, two leaders of the Global Diversity Club, who shared stories from their own Chinese heritage. They spoke about the cherished values that are deeply ingrained in Chinese culture - harmony, generosity, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom, honesty, and loyalty. Carla talked about learning traditional Chinese arts from her grandfather, while Diana addressed the challenges faced by the Chinese community, encouraging everyone to embrace individuality and diversity within each ethnic group. “Many people miss the most remarkable part of our culture, and it is precisely this diversity that makes each culture truly special. One of the messages we are trying to deliver during this Harmony Week is that we hope everyone can avoid making assumptions and be respectful and inclusive towards cultures you may be unfamiliar with.”
Principal, Dr Briony Scott, concluded the Assembly with a reminder that “diversity goes both ways”; it is about being proud of one's cultural background, languages, and family history, but also about being curious and open to learning about others. It's about seeking to understand, and being there to support one another.
As the week progressed, girls from Kindergarten to Year 12 participated in activities and conversations that served as a reminder to foster a community that is truly inclusive and welcoming to all.