Pupils take to the streets in human rights protest

FORRES Academy Human Rights Awareness Day culminated in a student protest march through the town centre last week.

The demonstration followed a series of presentations and activities at Forres schools, organised by the Social Studies Department, focussing on issues such as child trafficking and child soldiers.

Addressing the march from the Mercat Cross, social subjects teacher, Mr Craig Edwards, said: “You can see how much awareness we are creating.

“But there’s no point in getting everyone’s attention if they’ve no idea why we are here - what do we want?”

“RIGHTS FOR THE CHILD!” called the Academy protesters over applause from High Street onlookers.

S2 pupils felt they successfully highlighted children’s human rights issues around the world with the Forres public.

“Everyone needs to be aware of the problems that so many children have to face,” explained Ruari Fraser (13).

“Children everywhere are as important as each other - we get our human rights so why shouldn’t others?”

“We can all help the children without basic rights get them,” added Callum Grant (13).

“Examples of them can be found in some of the poorer countries in Africa.

“All children should be able to get an education, water, food and shelter.”

“Some of them are fighting for their lives,” agreed Warren Gillich (13). “It is important we let people here know what they are going through.”

Earlier in the day the students visited stalls and viewed presentations by pressure groups in the school hall. They also viewed a film called ‘Children in Chains’ in the library by director Jon Pullman.

Pupils in small groups also worked on activities with Human Rights themes. Some even visited local primary pupils to pass their message on to younger generations.

Moray MP Angus Robertson and Richard Lochhead MSP joined the demo from Forres Academy to the High street and back.

“It was extremely interesting to see the work around topics such as slavery and child soldiers,” said Mr Robertson.

“I welcomed the opportunity to discuss with pupils how we can influence the human rights situation on an individual basis.”

Richard Lochhead MSP was also delighted to take part: “The pupils did a fantastic job raising awareness of important human rights issues such as child trafficking,” he said.

“I hope they all enjoyed actively taking part in democracy and campaigning.”

“Human Rights Awareness Day was exciting and fun,” said Lauren Cameron (13).

“It was an effective way of learning about the issues,” added Jennifer Spencer (13).

“The event went well and helped to raise awareness of chidren’s rights across the globe,” finished Jenny Mitchell (13).

High Street shoppers were impressed by the efforts of the Social Studies students.

“The protest was quite good,” said Edith Anderson. “The bairns were happy.”

“Everyone of them took part,” added Diane Busza. “They were all engaged and on task.”