Courage to Care

an exhibition & educational program

Exhibition dates: 22 July to 2 August

Alliance Française de Melbourne,

51 Grey St, St Kilda, 3182

A number of public presentations will run throughout the duration of the exhibition. Participants will be guided through the exhibition by a member of Courage to Care, and will have the opportunity to hear a testimony from a Holocaust survivor. These presentations will be in English, and are free to attend. RSVP is essential. To sign up to a session, please see bottom of page.

What is Courage to Care?

Courage to Care is an education program supported by a travelling exhibition that educates Australians about racism, prejudice and discrimination by exploring the actions of the ‘Righteous Among the Nations’ (those men and women who risked their own lives during the Holocaust to save others) and heroes of other genocides to challenge visitors to consider their own attitudes to prejudice, discrimination, racism and bullying. The program inspires participants to be upstanders, not bystanders when confronted by actions they know are wrong

The program was developed to promote respect for diversity and encourage an intelligent, open and peaceful society.

Program

Courage to Care offers workshops with presentations, exhibition viewing and facilitated discussion. Workshops are tailored for school students and adult groups, and Courage to Care also offers smaller-scale incursions into schools for students from Year 5 - 12.

There is no admission charge but, as a volunteer based not-for-profit organisation, donations are always welcome.

What is the message?

• Ordinary people are capable of extraordinary acts

• Each person can make a difference

• Be an Upstander not a bystander

The program uses examples from the past to plant the seeds of awareness, understanding and empathy for minority groups and for people experiencing disadvantage. It fosters acceptance and an appreciation of diversity.

Participants realise they can have a direct effect by supporting those who experience prejudice and discrimination. Individuals are encouraged to enquire, discuss and critically reflect on their personal values as they become more aware of the types of behaviour that constitute bullying, racism and stereotyping – and the impact of being a bystander.

By looking at the sweep of history, it offers students an insight into the consequences which result when the majority remain silent; and raises teacher awareness of relevant curriculum resources and materials.

Who are the Local Heroes?

As well as telling the stories of Righteous among the Nations, several of whom have lived in Victoria, each exhibition also endeavours to honour an Upstander who has acted selflessly and courageously in their local community.

By telling the stories of the extraordinary actions of ordinary Victorians, Courage to Care demonstrates that we are all capable of acting with moral courage.

Listen to the SBS interview with Alliance Française French teacher and B'nai B'rith member, Danielle Schilling (in French):