CLOSE THE GAP DAY 2024

Laidley State High School recently observed Close the Gap Day with a meaningful event aimed at raising awareness about health disparities among Australia’s First Nations Peoples. Close the Gap Day, celebrated annually on the third Thursday of March, has become a cornerstone event for communities across the country to come together in support of health equality.

For more than a decade, Australians from all walks of life have demonstrated their commitment to closing the health gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. This year’s Close the Gap Day provided an important opportunity for individuals, schools and organisations to unite in advocating for health equality as a fundamental right for all Australians.

At Laidley State High School, students and staff joined forces to commemorate Close the Gap Day in a poignant manner. The school’s activities aimed at fostering understanding and solidarity. One particularly impactful gesture involved the laying of cardboard hands adorned in the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. This symbolic act, undertaken by students and staff enthusiastically embraced by every member of the school community, served as a powerful reminder of the collective commitment to addressing health inequalities.

The Close the Gap Day celebrations at Laidley State High School underscored the importance of solidarity and collective action in addressing systemic inequalities. As the nation continues its journey towards achieving health equality by 2032, events like these serve as a reminder of the progress made and the work that still lies ahead.

“On behalf of the RISING Community Program, we extend our appreciation to Laidley State High School for warmly welcoming our team and including us in the fantastic day of celebrations. Your generosity and hospitality created an inclusive and memorable experience for all involved. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a special event and look forward to continued collaboration and partnership in the future. Thank you for your support and for making a difference in our community.” – Yvonne O’Neill