By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE State Government has leapt to the defence of a Cranbourne primary school, after its decision to allow Islamic students to leave an assembly to avoid singing the Australian National Anthem sparked national debate.
Over the past few days, the issue has been covered on at least two television networks, on 3AW, drawn comment from opinion writers and national columnists, and even a response from Senator Jacqui Lambie.
Despite concern from parents, the principal of Cranbourne Carlisle Primary has strongly defended the school’s decision to allow its Muslim students the choice to leave the Year 2-6 assembly, citing an Islamic month of mourning – Muharram.
Star News broke the story last Wednesday after Lorraine McCurdy, whose grandchildren go to the school, attended the school’s assembly and was concerned by the staff’s decision to give Islamic students the option to not sing the national anthem.
Education Minister James Merlino on Tuesday threw his support behind the school, stating that the school had shown “respect and sensitivity to the different cultures and faiths within its community”, and that the action of the students “was not a sign of disrespect”.
“Outside of this observance period these students gladly participate in singing and music in school, including our national anthem,” Mr Merlino said.
“The motto of Cranbourne Carlisle Primary School is ‘Many Cultures, One Community.’
“This is a sentiment that we should all remember and strive to uphold in our great state.”
Ms McCurdy said she attended the assembly every week and had never seen this before.
“About 30-40 children left, all of Middle Eastern appearance,” she said.
“When we had finished singing the National Anthem, they all reappeared into the hall and sat with their classmates.
“A lot of the parents at the assembly were saddened as this was the Australian national anthem and not to do with any religion.”
Cranbourne Carlisle Primary School Principal Cheryl Irving said the decision was made in adherence with Muharram – the Islamic month of mourning associated with Shi’a Muslims in which they do not participate in “joyful events”.
“Muharram is a cultural observation marking the death of Imam Hussein,” Ms Irving said.
“This year it falls between Tuesday 13 October and Thursday 12 November. During this time Shi’a do not participate in joyful events as it is a period of mourning.
“This includes listening to music, attending parties, wearing nail polish or make up, etc.
“Prior to last week’s Years 2-6 Assembly commencing, an announcement was made advising anyone participating in Muharram, that it was an opportune time to leave the hall as music was about to be played (the National Anthem).
“Anyone who was unable to listen to music due to this cultural observance was given adequate time to comply with their religious belief.”
The Education Department also backed the school’s decision.
“The department supports our schools to be inclusive for all students – this includes understanding and respecting religious or cultural observances,” the spokesperson said.
“From 2016, the new Victorian curriculum will include new subjects such as respectful relationships, world views and ethical understanding, helping to build more inclusive schools and communities.”
