Support for victims and survivors

St Patrick’s College is providing the opportunity for the community to show their support for victims/survivors involved in the Royal Commission being heard this month.

The College is encouraging all its community members to tie a blue, green or white ribbon to the College’s front gates and fence as a symbol of support.

Headmaster John Crowley tied the first ribbon this afternoon and said the College would welcome similar moves by anyone wishing to participate.

“The ribbons are a symbol of our support for past students whose lives have been devastated by sexual abuse,” Mr Crowley said.

“It also represents our acknowledgement and ownership of this part of our history and gives the broader Ballarat community the opportunity to join us in this display of support.

“We also hope it is seen as a symbol of the College’s desire to take another step towards healing.”

The ribbons will remain in place at the front of the College for the duration of the Royal Commission hearings in Ballarat, which will last three weeks.

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