While there is greater awareness in 2015 of the difficulties faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex teens, Mill Park Secondary College captain Liam Gallagher says it would still be difficult to “come out” while at school.
“We’re a school of 1500 students and some students might have different views,” Mr Gallagher said last week. “We just want to stand up for what’s right.”
Mr Gallagher and five other students on the school’s charitable events committee have organised a host of events for this week – its ‘advocacy week’ – when students speak out about issues affecting them and their communities.
The three themes the committee chose to focus on are family violence, gender equality and sexual diversity.
Whittlesea mayor Ricky Kirkham launched proceedings yesterday.
Guest speakers from La Trobe University, the White Ribbon organisation, which works to prevent male violence against women, and the Salvation Army will speak to the years 10, 11 and 12 students this week about greater equality and respect between men and women, and the effect family violence has on a victim’s mental health.
Mr Gallagher says he hopes the workshops and lectures will drive home the messages.
“I want everyone to stand up and take responsibility, and promote positive behaviours at home, at school and in sporting clubs.”
Lexi Cottee
