Editor's Note

Hi Everyone,

I had an interesting experience this week when I tried to put a poster up at my son’s school.

It was for a Prep Year Halloween Fancy Dress Party that I am organising where everyone brings a plate of food and a bag of lollies to share with friends.

The whole community are invited and I was hoping to put four posters up outside the prep classrooms to make it easy to let all the parents know it was happening.

To my surprise, when I asked permission to put them up, I was told by the school that the theme of the party might ‘offend’ some people.

For a moment I was speechless – how could a kid’s party be offensive?

But when it was explained further, I was made aware that no ‘private’ parties can be promoted at the school and that they have to be very careful with promoting all holidays whether that be Christmas or Halloween.

I notice Easter was ok though.

Now to be clear, I am not upset with the school for the decision, I completely respect their right to make up their rules.

It just made me realise that broader society seems to be becoming so sensitive to all subjects especially those that are not intended to cause offence.

I respect everyone’s rights to live their life in the way that they choose, and I hope to live in a society that does the same.

We are a multi-cultural nation that is richer for its diversity, and I believe that we could all benefit from opening our arms to some innocence, especially when the intention is only that of inclusion.

On a brighter note, if your kid would like to come to the party – here is the invite

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