LAST week, Irrawang High School, along with schools and and groups across Australia, stood united to celebrate the 8th National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.

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This annual day provides an opportunity to strengthen consistent messages that bullying, including cyber bullying and violence at school, are never okay.

Irrawang High School combined the day with Harmony Day.

School representative Lue Fagan told News Of The Area, “At Irrawang High, we traditionally acknowledge this day with Harmony Day, two events that go hand in hand to demonstrate and encourage kindness, respect and inclusiveness.”

“We were all entertained by the IHS Drum Corps before and after as well as enjoying a performance by dance ensemble.”

The Student Leaders led the assembly.

An excerpt from their speech to the school included these important words, “At Irrawang High School we have students and staff who have backgrounds from many different parts of the world including a wide variety of Aboriginal nations from across Australia including the land of the Worimi on which we stand today, Torres Strait Islands, Samoa, Jamaica, Fiji, Maori, the Philippines, India, Malaysia, China, Africa, South America and from all places throughout Europe.”

“To live harmoniously in Australia, it is essential that we ensure that everyone from different backgrounds is made to feel equal and involved, and are treated with fairness and respect.”

“Some people might look or dress differently from you, but learning more about the cultures and customs of those around you will help you to better understand these differences.”

“Remember, differences are not a bad thing, they are what make us unique and special.”

“Harmony Day is a day to celebrate and learn more about the things that make us different.”

The Student Leaders then spoke to fellow students and staff from some of the many countries asking about their culture, their heritage and their food.

The future is brighter with these young people acknowledging important issues in this positive way.

By Rachael VAUGHAN