2023 | Issue 17 | SJC Newsletter

LGBTQ+ and allies excursion run by the Victoria Police.

On Tuesday 31 October students attended an LGBTQ+ and allies excursion run by the Victoria Police. It was an opportunity for young people to connect with likeminded peers from various Geelong schools, discuss the impact the Victorian Police have on LGBTQ+ young people, to enhance support and child safety for LGBTQ+ youth and to foster a greater sense of community. In addition, students also met the Geelong Cats AFLW pride ambassadors: Mikayla Bowen and Kate Anderson. Mikayla and Kate led the students through an AFL skills session and then engaged in an open discussion regarding the importance of having a community that celebrates individuality and embraces everyone’s authentic self. Mikayla expressed how grateful she was to be loved by her family, friends, Kate and the rest of her team for exactly who she is and she emphasised the importance of vocalising this to loved ones who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. Mikayla mentioned the power of a support network and how this can significantly help with a young person’s sense of identity and mental health. Joey’s students asked insightful questions including how they could increase LGBTQ+ active allyship in their own local community but also how to encourage this within the Men’s AFL sphere. Students left feeling connected, valued and celebrated- we hope Vic Police put this on again next year!

Isabel McGann
Head of Student Services