Include 'I Swear' in Western Australian curriculum

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The issue

Let's ticcing change the world.

Growing up with Tourette Syndrome (Tourette's), I've faced countless misunderstandings, both verbal and physical, simply because my tics make me appear different. 

It's a daily battle many of us endure due to lack of awareness. 

When my fiancée sat down to watch the film "I Swear", the story of Tourette's advocate John Davidson, a profound transformation occurred. She saw Tourette's not just as a series of involuntary movements and sounds but comprehended the depth, complexity, and humanity behind it.

This film, more than any other, conveyed what living with Tourette's is actually like. 

By incorporating "I Swear" into the Western Australian school curriculum, we can cultivate a culture of understanding and acceptance from an early age, which, in turn, will shift the public consciousness. The film serves as an invaluable educational tool. It vividly portrays different aspects of Tourette's, demonstrating that it can manifest in countless ways across individuals.

This is crucial for dismantling stigma and educating students who might otherwise only see Tourette's through the narrow perspective of stereotypes.

Implementing this change could fundamentally alter how future generations perceive Tourette Syndrome, creating a societal shift that will change lives forever. According to research by the Department of Health, approximately one in 100 school-aged children have Tourette Syndrome, yet many education systems remain ill-equipped to address the needs of these students.

Including a powerful film like "I Swear" in the curriculum ensures that the voice of every affected child is heard and understood.

Moreover, empathy cultivated through education can dramatically reduce incidents of bullying and exclusion, fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for all students. With schools serving as microcosms of society, teaching understanding and acceptance could ripple outward, reaching beyond the classroom.

I urge WA Education Minister Sabine Winton to take this critical step toward inclusivity. Embrace this opportunity to educate and enlighten young minds. Let's ensure that all young people, regardless of their differences, are respected and understood.

Please, sign this petition to help make this crucial educational reform a reality.

The Decision Makers

Sabine Winton
Sabine Winton
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence (WA)

Supporter voices

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