News at St. Catherine's
St. Catherine's Honors Malala Yousafzai
Students pay tribute to Malala's empowering story.
Student activist Malala Yousafzai advocates for girls’ education in Pakistan and because of her beliefs, had to fight for her life. While riding home from school on Oct. 9, Malala was shot in the back of the head by a Taliban gunman. Malala survived the attack, but was in critical condition. The news of the tragedy quickly garnered worldwide support for the young activist’s recovery. The United Nations declared Nov.10, 2012 as Malala Day.
In a collective call for action, the National Coalition of Girls Schools is encouraging member schools to organize a “moment of voice” for Malala, instead of a moment of silence, as it seems the proper way to honor a young woman who has made sure girls have not only an education but also a strong voice in this world.
Both Middle School and Upper School Thanksgiving services featured prayers and celebration for Malala. The Upper School service, led by Upper School Religion teacher, Drew Johnson closed with a singing of “Jerusalem” in honor of Malala.
“It seems appropriate that we sing “Jerusalem” in honor of Malala, Cathy McGehee said.
“In the early 20th century, Jerusalem was sung in England during the women's suffrage movement. Today we give thanks for a young woman's willingness to stand up for Women's education. This is our act to show our thankfulness for her model and courage for our own education, which we often take for granted.”
During a Middle School assembly earlier this month, members of the Middle School Prejudice Awareness Club shared Malala's story and invited other students to participate in writing prayer ribbons to honor Malala’s courageous struggle.
Rev. Dorothy White, Middle School teacher, Amy Blake and Middle School Art teacher, Pam Shelor helped to organize the project.
“Dr. White had a vision for our students to celebrate Malala by offering prayers for her healing and recovery,” Blake said. “Students of all ages, as well as faculty and staff members, have been taking time over these last weeks to honor Malala and girls like her by tying colorful prayer ribbons to the trees.”
The Upper School’s Thanksgiving chapel can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yzCeo7cz18&feature=plcp.
Located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, St. Catherine’s School is a private, all-girls pre-K, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school. We provide a well-rounded educational experience for girls from communities across Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico and all of central Virginia. St.Catherine’s all-girls educational experience is rooted in more than a century of history and tradition. From our revolutionary past to our dynamic present, St. Catherine’s has always focused on preparing students for a boundless future.
