So far 2020 hasn’t been the most fun-filled year. In fact, it’s been an absolute doozy. But in searching for a glimmer of hope, we need look no further than the gripping sense of global momentum that is building and shaping this year’s biggest movements.
In January as our country burned, tens of thousands of Australians joined rallies to protest climate change. Recent polls in the US suggest that over 15 million Americans participated in demonstrations over the death of George Floyd over the course of just a few weeks in June, making it the largest movement in the country’s history.
As NSW teeters on the brink of another lockdown we encourage you to channel your frustration and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is – to ensure activism doesn’t slide away into apathy. Whether it be through direct donation or choosing to buy resources so that you can educate yourself, it’s time to think creatively about how we can maintain momentum this August.
Be Kind Sydney Covid-19 Appeal
Be Kind Sydney is raising $1 Million to support projects responding to the needs of vulnerable people and diverse communities across Greater Sydney during the COVID-19 pandemic. Be Kind funds food banks, women’s shelters, education programs for kids who have lost their way, and initiatives to overcome the isolation experienced by the elderly – especially those who arrived as refugees. Be Kind Sydney is working to bring together a community of Sydneysiders who are willing to support each other when times are tough. See how you can get involved.
Clothing the Gap
Established in 2019, Victorian Aboriginal owned and led social enterprise, Clothing the Gap unites non-Indigenous and Aboriginal people through fashion and social change. With 100% of profits supporting Aboriginal health promotion and education programs throughout Victoria, this is a change-leading outfit. Check out their range of t-shirts, jumpers, accessories and new reversible, reusable face masks.
Small Ways To Shape Our World – Igniting Change
We are thrilled to announce that Founder and Director of Igniting Change, Jane Tewson, joins us for this month’s INSIGHT panel. As an innovator with a global reputation for inspiring individuals and organisations to work together for positive social change, Jane and Igniting Change have created Small Ways to Shape Our World, a thought-provoking, conversation-starting, society-changing guide to reshaping our world. Browse this little book for suggestions on what we can all do to help make a kinder, more curious world.
Lou’s Place
Established in 1999 in a terrace house in Kings Cross, Lou’s Place is Sydney’s only daytime women’s refuge, a unique, community-based centre for women in crisis. The social isolation measures enforced during COVID-19 have meant that many are at an increased risk of experiencing domestic and family violence. Initiatives like Lou’s Place ensure that women have access to a safe place to rest and seek help if needed. Lou’s Place receives no government funding and relies on the generous support of donors and volunteers. You can donate to Lou’s Place via their website, or contact them via email to find out how you can volunteer.
Growing Up Aboriginal in Australia – Edited by Anita Heiss
Published in 2018, Growing Up Aboriginal in Australia is an anthology of diverse Indigenous voices showcasing experiences and stories that answer the question – “What is it like to grow up Aboriginal in Australia”? Featuring contributions from Adam Goodes, Miranda Tapsell and Tony Birch, this unique collection of accounts challenges stereotypes about Aboriginal experiences in contemporary Australia. You can also access the book as an audiobook via Audible.
