Mary Ward Justice Lecture

An enthusiastic audience of Loreto Sisters, Alumnae, staff, students and community members attended the event, hosted by our Year 12 Mission and Justice Councillors, and Captains of School.

Dr Ryan addressed the topic, “Seeking Truth, Doing Justice. How Do we Make a Difference?”, reflecting on the motivation behind her decision to enter politics prior to the 2022 election and her experience over the last 12 months as a new member of the federal Parliament. In an inspiring speech, Dr Ryan spoke about the quest for justice and inclusion as a driving force, as well as the importance of ensuring our democratic institutions were valued, protected and strengthened both by politicians and leaders across all sectors of society.

In response to a question from Francesca

Burke, a Year 12 Politics student, about what she took from her Loreto education to Canberra, Dr Ryan spoke of the sense of responsibility she carries. Such accountability stems from a sense of gratitude for the gift of her education, coupled with a recognition of the privilege this confers on all Loreto Toorak students. Dr Ryan said, “If you can, you should.” We all should be prepared to ask questions in the search for truth; we should strive to make a difference; and we should ensure justice is at the heart of our decisions and in the centre of our community.

The School was honoured to host Dr Ryan for this event, and stirred by her warmth, wit, and wisdom. The buzz in the air as guests departed into the wintry evening, signalled the desire of all present to engage anew with Mary Ward’s call for us each to be “seekers of truth and doers of justice”.