A group of former students from Danebank School Hurstville are pleased their old school has welcomed an opportunity to discuss the alumni’s concerns of “discrimination.”
Ex-students from as far back as 1958 to 2018, formed a united front against Danebank, in response to the school signing a letter from the Anglican Diocese to the Prime Minister, regarding exemptions to the Sex Discrimination Act 1984.
Engadine’s Jessica Moore, who graduated in 2002, co-drafted the letter and collected 359 signatures via a Facebook group.
Ms Moore says many students were dismayed at the inclusion of Danebank in more than 30 schools that called for religious freedom to be protected under the law.
“The letter came as a disappointment to our group of proud Danebank girls, of different ages and graduating years,” she said.
“At Danebank we learned and experienced the power of love and inclusion. All of us who signed feel strongly that discrimination against a person based on their sex, has no place. We dispute that the types of discrimination described in the act are a threat to core issues of faith.
“But we are really happy that the principal has agreed to our offer to meet with us next week, and we are looking forward to having an open dialogue.
“We plan on asking what the school’s counselling options for LGBTQ+ students are, and because we now have this momentum, we are keen on turning what was a hurtful letter into something more positive.”
On its website, Danebank principal Maryanne Davis reassured the community that it is a caring school that supports students through the challenges of life with compassion.
“I was recently asked by the The Most Reverend Dr Glenn Davies Archbishop of Sydney to, along with 37 other Anglican schools in Greater Sydney and the Illawarra, co-sign an open letter regarding the importance of religious freedom in our schools,” Ms Davis said.
“The letter calls for the right to employ staff who support the ethos of the school, whether they subscribe to it or not.
“Sadly, some news media have incorrectly reported on the issue, leading to widespread misinformation and comment. We are saddened that the media coverage and resultant misunderstanding have caused distress to any of our current or past students.
“We will continue to be a place where every individual is valued, supported and cherished.
“We want to ensure that every person associated with Danebank knows that we will fight for the right for every girl to become her best woman, to be empowered and to be confident in who she is and all she can become. This is who we are.
“Danebank has always been and will continue to be a community that welcomes and embraces people, regardless of their faith, sexuality or culture. This was the premise when the school was founded in 1933 and every generation since has flourished being part of this wonderful and inclusive culture.
“We value your input and have created an opportunity for anyone to contact us with their response or comments.”