Students at Christ’s College have come together in a powerful show of solidarity to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, forming a symbolic ‘circle of unity’ around the school’s iconic Quad.
The initiative, led by the Senior Round Square committee, is a call to action for students and staff to recognise the ongoing importance of challenging racism and promoting inclusion within their school community and beyond.
As part of the ceremony, students united in singing Ka Waiata and performed the school haka, underscoring their collective commitment to standing together against racial discrimination.
“The circle of unity shows that every one of us has a role to play in addressing racism,” said Benson Geng-Wang, Head of International and Round Square at Christ’s College. “This is a milestone moment for our community. Through this symbolic gesture, we honour the diverse cultures that enrich our school and demonstrate our shared values.”
Round Square committee member Yul Kwon delivered a heartfelt address at a recent school assembly, urging students to reflect on how racism—while it may not affect everyone directly—can deeply harm the people they care about.
“I understand that some of you may feel this circle doesn’t relate to you, but think about your peers, your friends, your family. How would you feel if they were discriminated against?” he asked. “Every one of us—from staff to students—can do something to fight racism. Today is the next step in living out our commitment.”
The event also connects to the broader mission of Round Square, a global network of schools in over 50 countries united by shared values known as the IDEALS: Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service.
The message of unity has already inspired others. Medbury School Head Boy Will Fang and Cultural Leader William McGlashan recently visited Christ’s College to learn more about the initiative. They have since launched their own version of the circle of unity at Medbury, in solidarity with the international movement.