A message of unity

Copeman's and Renfrew Houses have teamed up to deliver messages central to the Shawnigan experience.

 

Unity was the theme of Thursday morning's house chapel service, as the two groups encouraged their peers to reflect on topical issues including gender and respect.

 

In his address, Copeman's Head of House Jacob L. spoke humbly about the healthy debate surrounding gender equality that's been percolating at Shawnigan lately. "I've learned a lot by listening," he said, pointing to the tremendous food for thought he has encountered. "We believe ... that a genuine unity is incredibly important for staff and students alike," he said, adding, "To achieve unity everyone must respect and appreciate the diversity that the school has to offer."

 

Adding her voice, Renfrew Head of House Maggie B. spoke about how unity is essential for any progress to be made. Looking back on some of the first girls at Shawnigan, Maggie pointed to some of the incredible progress made at the school and in society, but cautioned that there is still room for growth. "The time has come to take the steps required to create equality for all," she said, imploring the audience not to take sides in these debates, but rather to choose a community where everyone feels included and equally respected. "Our diversity should serve to unify us, not divide us. So really think about this. Do our personal biases keep us closed-minded? Do our traditions hold us back? To come together as one, or divide and separate. The choice is ours."

 

The two houses drove home the message of unity with relevant prayers and readings, while singers Sedonia B. and Kylie K., accompanied by Alan L., presented a harmonious mashup of songs from the musicals Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen.

 

Headmaster Larry Lamont referenced the "hugely courageous and compelling addresses" as he thanked the houses for their contributions to the Shawnigan chapel. Mr. Lamont also expressed his gratitude for "asking us to face some uncomfortable truths and reflect on those," adding, "I'm extremely proud to have students like you in this school."