Chalk Talk: Social Justice Week hosted at Loreto
Loreto Secondary School St Michael’s marked its 48th annual Social Justice Week, a long-standing tradition rooted in the school’s ethos and inspired by the vision of Mary Ward. This year’s theme, “Women – Rooted, Responsive and Relevant,” shaped a wide-ranging programme centred on leadership, equality and global responsibility.
The week opened with a keynote address from former student and MEP Nina Carberry. Among the highlights was a powerful talk from disability advocate, teacher and author Sinéad Burke, who spoke to senior students about inclusion and advocacy.
Her visit left a strong impression. Sixth Year student Carla Duffy described it as “inspiring and impactful,” while Naomi Bakre said it “opened my eyes to seeing the world through others’ eyes.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Helen McEntee also engaged with students, discussing leadership and the role young people can play in driving change. One of the most impactful moments came with a visit from Fr. Peter McVerry, who addressed Fifth Year students alongside guests from Beaufort College. Drawing on decades of experience working with people affected by homelessness, he challenged common stereotypes and emphasised that homelessness can affect anyone.
Fr McVerry urged students never to judge those experiencing homelessness, reminding them that nobody chooses the circumstances they are born into.
“If I had been born into their circumstances, I would be exactly the same,” he said. “If they had been born into my circumstances, they could be the person coming to visit me.”
His message resonated deeply. Beaufort College student Evan Jordan said it shifted his perspective: “It made me realise that homelessness isn’t just linked to drugs or addiction, it can happen to anyone and it’s much closer to us than we think.”
He said his work has made him both grateful and angry, grateful for the life he was given, and angry that homelessness continues in a country that has the means to address it.
One of the strongest moments of his talk came when he said, “I always thought the hardest part of being homeless was not having a bed for the night… but it’s not. The hardest part is living knowing that nobody cares.”
Students listened in silence as he spoke, reflecting on the impact of addiction, trauma and inequality. Yet his talk also carried a strong sense of purpose, reminding students that compassion and action can make a real difference.
Following a round of questions from students, one asked, “Do you think homelessness can actually be solved in Ireland?”
He replied, “Homelessness is a political problem that this country has the ability to bring an end to, but until that happens, I’ll continue to do all I can.”
As he said his goodbyes, Fr McVerry told students he hoped to be back again next year. At 82 years of age, he shows no signs of slowing down. His dedication remains as strong as ever, continuing to raise awareness and give a voice to those too often unheard.
Reilly Thompson highlighted a particularly striking point: “When he said that many of us in the room could be affected by homelessness at some point, it really shocked me. It made me think that we can’t just ignore it.”
Fr. McVerry also urged students to reflect on their role in creating change, reminding them that rights are often hard-won. As Reilly added, “He said we fought for the right to education, so why wouldn’t we fight for the right to a home. That really stayed with me.”
The discussion sparked strong engagement among students from both schools, prompting reflection on homelessness and the responsibility to respond. Throughout the week, students also took part in workshops, peer-led activities and environmental initiatives, including tree planting and sustainability projects. The programme encouraged them to consider how their actions can contribute to a more just and inclusive society.