An exhibition with a message

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I was pleased to have the opportunity this morning to attend Stromlo High School’s Anti-Homophobia Art Exhibition, Stromlo Diversity United.

The Art Exhibition is a display of artworks and posters made by staff and students around the theme of anti-homophobia and celebrating diversity at all levels in the school and the community.

Like any form of bullying or discrimination, homophobia can have a massive and negative impact on the life of a young person.

ACT schools already work hard to make every student feel safe and welcome students but there’s always more to do, in particular ensuring our schools are free of homophobia and are safer and more supportive of all students.

Stromlo High School has shown outstanding support and enthusiasm to eliminate homophobia at their school and educate others on acceptance, understanding, safety and respect.

The Art Exhibition is named after the school’s support group Diversity United, which meets weekly with the aim of ensuring every student and staff member feels safe and able to be supported in grappling with identity issues and dealing with abuse.

The student’s interpretation and meaning of their artwork being displayed demonstrates deep personal values and school beliefs. I am pleased that the posters will be professionally printed and distributed throughout the school community, surrounding schools and local support groups as well.

This initiative follows the Challenging Homophobia in ACT Schools Conference held earlier this year in May to coincide with the International Day Against Homophobia.

I am thrilled that from this initiative schools like Stromlo High School have established beneficial educational and support programs to ensure all students can develop their identities within a supportive environment.

The ACT Labor Government is also determined to stamp-out homophobia on the sporting field.

There’s no place for homophobia in our schools or on the sports ground and we will continue to work with sporting organisations to eradicate it and all other forms of abuse and harassment.