We will celebrate Harmony Week ( 20 – 26 March) to promote understanding, inclusivity, and diversity.

Harmony Week celebrates cultural diversity and promotes inclusiveness and respect for all people, regardless of their background or abilities. It is an opportunity to recognise the important contributions that people of all cultures and abilities make to our community and oursociety as a whole.

As part of Harmony Week, we have the perfect opportunity to acknowledge World Down Syndrome day, which is celebrated worldwide on 21 March. On this day, we emphasise the importance of inclusion for people with disabilities, also known as people of determination. Inclusion means ensuring that all peoplehave the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of society, including education, employment, and social and cultural activities. It also means recognising and valuing the unique contributions that people of determination can make to our communities.

At Canberra Grammar School, we believe promoting inclusivity and acceptance for all is essential to creating a vibrant and welcoming community. Whether it be through celebrating the diverse cultures and traditions of our students and staff or acknowledging and supporting the unique abilities and perspectives of people with Down syndrome or other people of determination. With the theme ‘With us not for us’, we strive to create a community that values diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for all.

We encourage all members of our community to take this opportunity to learn more about Down syndrome and the experiences of people with Down syndrome as well as celebrate the many cultures and backgrounds that make our School community so special.

On Tuesday, 21 March, we will hold an event in the evening where the School buildings and the heritage-listed Quadrangle will be lit in in support of World Down Syndrome Day for the first time within Australia  #LightUpALandmark . High-profile guestswill be present to show their support. Join us in creating a more harmonious and accepting world.

Please register your intention to attend here;https://events.humanitix.com/light-up-a-landmark-international-downs-syndrome-day-event