During VIS Pride Week, students and staff embraced the core values of diversity and belonging, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere within our school community. Going beyond the student-led activities of previous years, our students took the initiative to organise a Pride-themed concert in the octagon, where they showcased their talents and spread a message of acceptance. Moreover, they dedicated their efforts towards fundraising for the local charity Queerbase throughout the entire week.
In addition to the concert, Pride Week at VIS saw an influx of guest speakers who graciously shared their knowledge and experiences with our students and staff. These insightful sessions covered a wide range of topics, including the erasure of LGBTQIA+ history, advocacy and activism, the intersection between gender binary and colonization, and the lived experiences of queer refugees in Austria.
The significance of Pride Week at VIS goes beyond the events and activities. It represents our unwavering dedication to fostering an environment where all individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. By actively engaging with the LGBTQ+ community and amplifying their voices, we reaffirm our commitment to building a school community that embraces diversity and celebrates the rich tapestry of identities. Let us continue to embrace and champion diversity, ensuring that VIS remains a safe and welcoming space for all individuals to thrive.