All One Under The Sun

Racism can be broadly defined as a “phenomenon that maintains and exacerbates avoidable and unfair inequalities in power, resources and opportunities” across racial, ethnic, cultural and religious groups in society. Surprisingly today, with copious amounts of knowledge and education, racism still exhibits detrimental, underlying issues in our world and school. 

‘All One Under The Sun’ is a Coffs Harbour-based project aiming to be an antidote to racism promoting education, inclusion, respect, connection and belonging. It highlights the importance of creating opportunities to connect people from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, building resilience in all of us to stand against racism and manifest change within our school and society. 

Recently, Jonathan Gilliland, Jagdeep Sandhu and I have passionately joined the ‘Youth Action Collective’, creating visual materials and content, working alongside community and creative mentors to lead this campaign. This involves attending monthly afterschool workshops to develop a platform of youth-led arts-based messaging as well as community volunteer engagement activities.

During the last school holidays, I was fortunate enough to attend the ‘Youth Action Collective’ at the Botanic Gardens. Our day included a beautiful smoking ceremony and cultural sharing with Troy Robinson, gaining insight into a First Nations perspective of racism and how it impacts individuals and the community. We also participated in an anti-racism Zoom learning about denial, bias, self-awareness and the power of bystander intervention. 

Additionally, last Saturday we joined together to blend our cultures and share perspectives whilst enjoying stand-up paddleboarding at Moonee Nature Reserve. Aunty Jenny Skinner led us through a cultural damper-making session further uniting the group. This collective is already changing the mindsets of those involved. 

Here’s what you can do… Start small. Be kind. Be respectful. Smile. Challenge yourself. Find out about all the unique, beautiful people and cultures around you. 

“WE ARE ALL ONE UNDER THE SUN”

Lily Betland
Year 10 Student