At St Joseph’s we believe that each of us has a responsibility for actively promoting racial justice in our schools and communities. We are very proud of our diverse community and our children describe themselves as a “family”.
One of our favourite songs reminds us that we are all brothers, sisters and friends, working for justice and for peace.
“You are my brother, you are my friend
You are my sister, our love should never end
Whatever colour our skin or our hair
Let us live together, this is our prayer.”
Please see below a Statement on Racial Justice issued by Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales
“We stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the USA as they challenge the evil of racism and the brutal killing of George Floyd. As the US Bishops made clear: “we cannot turn a blind eye to these atrocities and yet still try to profess to respect every human life. We serve a God of love, mercy, and justice.”
“Systemic racism is embedded in our own society. The disproportionate harm suffered by BAME people throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted profound inequalities, marginalisation and injustice here in the UK. The peaceful Black Lives Matter protests taking place in our towns and cities this week reflect the understandable anger that so many people feel about this.
“As Catholics we recognise that racism is an evil which must be opposed; we all have a responsibility for actively promoting racial justice. Whenever we ignore racism or dismiss BAME people’s experience of it, we are complicit in violations of human dignity. We pray for God’s help to overcome racism in all its forms and that we might protect everyone who suffers its consequences. We are all made in God’s image.”
Bishop Declan Lang Bishop Paul McAleenan
Lead Bishop for International Affairs Lead Bishop for Racial Justice
We had an interesting visit from the NSPCC who put on an assembly to discuss Childline with the children. If you would like to find out more or get involved with some of their activities follow the links below.
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/services-and-resources/working-with-schools/speak-out-stay-safe-service
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/globalassets/documents/schools/underwear-rule-resources---slide-presentation-2015.pdf
SOSS intro leaflet email to schools.doc
A5_20pp_Professionals_Booklet_J20151105_low_res.pdf
Sussex press article to share with schools.pdf
At St Joseph's, we are proud to play our part in the local community. As well as links with our parish church and other local schools, we take part in the annual Brighton Festival Children's Parade and other events such as Let's Dance, which is a fantastic way to engage with the local community.
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