We believe in the power of inspired young people
Australia ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1990. Under the Convention, children and young people, like adults, possess human rights. They also have the right to special protection because of their vulnerability to exploitation and abuse.
The previous weeks have given me reason to continually reflect on the importance of this and also on our YMCA Movement's commitment to our belief in the power of inspired young people, and as such, to provide a tangible expression of their rights and their voices. A commitment we have to prioritise all the time.
I have been in attendance at Commonwealth meetings in regards to the implementation of national child safe organisation principles where a group of organisations continue to contribute to the successful acceptance of this by the Council of Australian Governments, COAG. The principles emphasise the importance of culturally safe environments and practices. The importance of this work was evident when I attended the Senate Committee hearing into the National Redress scheme where I was able to listen to the stories of over eight survivors whose rights to a voice and protection were taken away from them as children.
As Australia goes through these changes it’s a time for us all to bring to life this statement as quoted in our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy.
“I have the right to give my opinion, for others to listen and value my contribution. I speak from the day I am born. As I grow we will communicate, but we may not always speak the same language. My right to speak is lost to those who have forgotten to listen.”
Melinda Crole, YMCA Australia CEO
PS Keep an eye out for our new whynot.org.au website about to be launched in mid-April, featuring young voices from around Australia.
? Passionate about change management as we journey into AI, and normalising mental health conversations ? Global Black Belt, Employee Experience & Leader of REAL Mates at Microsoft ? Woman in Tech ? International speaker
6 年What a powerful quote used in your post Melinda - “I have the right to give my opinion, for others to listen and value my contribution. I speak from the day I am born. As I grow we will communicate, but we may not always speak the same language. My right to speak is lost to those who have forgotten to listen.”