The students at Citipointe College have been taught these so called “Christian values” within its walls for years. This is nothing new. The language is divisive and damaging.
It sets children up with the wrong mindset and then releases them into the world. Where their views now have an impact on my life. They enter our workforce and some even make it to the top job of Prime Minister.
They aren’t bad people, they have just been taught the wrong values.
The response from Citipointe College principal Brian Mulheran to the backlash the school received was extremely disappointing. He doubled down and stuck by his discriminatory language. He offered no solution to work with parents and students who disagreed.
Yesterday he back-peddled for reasons I do not know. Maybe he received a call from the Human Rights Commission or maybe he got word from the Prime Minister who said in an interview “I don’t support that”.
It is important to have the conversation with our students about issues affecting them. We learn about ancient history, we are taught Pythagorus’s Theorem but there’s no real world discussion. At least that I’m aware of.
Imagine the impact of a teacher simply explaining to students still discovering who they are that the language of Citipointe goes against the moral compass of Australia. Why it’s important to stand up for those who are too afraid too.
The LGBTQIA+ community is welcomed. Your feelings and your confusion are perfectly valid and normal things to go through at a young age. To talk openly about mental health.
Citipointe has hidden behind a “Declaration of Faith” and the result is years of mental and emotional abuse on kids who struggle with their sexuality and identity.
I have received thousands of messages detailing unspeakable actions from teachers towards students. Driving them deep into despair. Making them think they are alone in the world.
It’s really important that the language you use in your everyday life is inclusive and if you see something say something. The impact you have on a student is huge. They are looking to you for guidance in life.
Many teachers are so amazing. I have had such positive role models in my life and I’m eternally grateful. I remember those teachers who pulled me aside to check on me. I also remember the teacher who tried to out me when I wasn’t ready.
I hold these experiences close and I learned how to treat others from these experiences.
I want to thank all teachers. You don’t realise the impact you have. It's huge and often thankless. We don’t realise just how awesome you are until we grow up.
