St Mary’s Cathedral Launches Modern Slavery Project

St Mary’s Cathedral Parish launched its Modern Slavery Project in February. The Project will run until the end of the year and during that time, the Cathedral Parish will review its procurement policy, host several faith formation and social education sessions as well as a morning tea introducing Fairtrade products.

“We need to ensure that the way we act as a Catholic community is consonant with our belief in the dignity of each person. We do not want to support structures which exploit or enslave our brothers and sisters. We will be investigating our own supply chains to identify where there might be risk,” Fr Sean explained.

The launch of the Project included a sausage sizzle hosted on the lawns of the Cathedral by the St Mary’s Cathedral Parish Pastoral Council.

Tony Meyrick, Liaison Officer the Project, said the parish has already undertake a significant amount of work in planning across the year and was keen to see it through to its completion. “It is a good that we can do, and I believe it’s a good we should do” Mr Meyrick said.

Cathedral Manager, Victor Hoa, said he is glad the parish has signed on to this Project. “I believe it will assist in the faith maturation and individual personal growth of our community. It’s a win-win for all involved,” Mr Hoa said.

Grace Kurniawan, WACMRO Officer working with St Mary’s Cathedral on the project, observed that the data on forced labour in our region and here in Australia is clear.

“The impact on victims and their families is heart-wrenching. I think St Mary’s Cathedral is undertaking a very important step by responding to the issue in such an efficient and effective way,” said Ms Kurniawan.

WACMRO Director, Deacon Greg Lowe, noted that despite a relatively small procurement spend, St Mary’s Cathedral has decided to combat modern slavery by ensuring it doesn’t contribute to it.

“They should be commended for this considered act of neighbourly love,” Deacon Greg said.