‘Solidarity Sleep Out’ There is no definite ‘format’ for an evening sleep-out. It is important that students move beyond the stereotypical story of ‘homelessness’ and can therefore make the evening one of moving into solidarity. Sleep-outs at various places have involved some of the aspects below – depending on the age of the students. For example, older students might need to get clothing donated whereas for younger ones, their parents might be a bit more protective.
Developing Solidarity As part of their preparation, each student comes with a ‘story’ about why they are sleeping rough that night. Stories might be imagined or have gleaned a true story from the Internet or other sources—the latter is more powerful. They can share these stories in a number of ways, depending on the age of the group and personal preferences. Some true stories can be told aloud to the whole group so there are a few common stories. These people might be named and represented symbolically to remain ‘present’ through the evening. Ritual will add to this.
Ritual Ritual provides opportunity for students to shape their emotions and to come to terms with this significant event. It binds the participants in their common experience and provides a focal point—a tangible reminder throughout the sleep-out experience. Ritual also provides opportunity for students to make meaning of their own beliefs and their personal call-to-action. Rituals are an opportunity for music, sacred story and shared reflection or prayer. Leadership The solidarity sleep out is an opportunity for senior student leaders to serve others. There is scope for exploration of the questions, ‘What does it mean to serve?’ and “How can we build relationship in every exchange?’ An older student serving the needs of younger students is a powerful unifying force in a multi-age group.
Programme (A collection of experiences and ideas) Some sort of ritual A talk to help establish solidarity (Vinnies speaker) Supper from Fred’s Van –students can come from other schools – you could do a sleep-out exchange! Or senior student leaders from your own school could arrange to come for this part of the experience.(If you bring in Fred’s Van, it’s a good idea if the participants haven’t had hot drinks before they arrive.))
Student exchange of ideas – the telling of stories – around a fire. (Fire is significant as it brings people together in ritual but also, more practically, to keep warm. A brazier works well with bits of wood students have collected over time. Briquettes can be made using paper as well – lots of planning needed but it is a way to involve other classes.) Entry was some item to a theme – for example, a can of a particular type of soup or chunky beef stew that can then be sent on to Fred’s Van or a pair of gloves or hat (new) Visits through evening of significant people who are in solidarity with students – school leadership, last year’s social justice leaders.
Location and sleeping arrangements A safe area, out of sight from public A light meal – not pizzas! Cardboard boxes for shelters or using natural shelter provided by doorways. Blankets – only using what was donated Clothing – only using what was donated – all donated clothing and blankets went to Vinnies. (It needs to be washed after the event – appeal for woolly hats, windcheaters, scarves) the students have to appeal so they won’t be cold. They then arrange cleaning so clean clothes go to Vinnies.
Follow-Up events Tour of Kidman Park where we sort our clothing – at a later date Older students (>16) helping out on Fred’s van with participating adult. Student speaking at assembly – article in newsletter – feature in school Annual – school social justice page on website.
Contact Tim Taylor, School Resources Unit ttaylor@svdpsa.org.au Y:\School Resources\Publications\Solidarity Sleep Out - compressed.doc
8112 8725