Today saw a small gathering of people laying white flowers, as part of the White Flower Memorial Movement in Australia. The movement highlights the abuse, neglect and isolation of people with disabilities in current and past care facilities. The memorial was held at the gates of Willow Court and was in memory of the Children that were institutionalised at the centre during it’s long 174 year history.
The Leader of the Tasmanian Greens, Cassy O’Conner was the surprise guest speaker and has been calling for a public apology, similarly to the past apologies give to the Stolen Generation and Wards of the State in Tasmania. The event was coordinated by Dannii Lane who was a previous resident of Lachlan Park Hospital. There was a reading of names and a poem during this rainy day event. Representing the Derwent Valley Council, was the Mayor, Martyn Evans who was also the photographer. ABC News reported during the evening news.
Other similar events have been held around Australia and the movement is gathering momentum in the call to have violence against vulnerable people recognised and stopped.