Identity & Belonging
Who are we beyond our first impressions?
About the initiative
See the person.
Not just the label.
Before we know someone’s story, we often decide who they are. RISE asks us to listen, question our assumptions and make room for dignity and belonging.
Our purpose
Respect Identity.
Stop Exclusion.
RISE is a school and community conversation initiative inspired by the young adult novel Smart and Dangerous. We want people to look beyond first impressions, stereotypes and reputations, and consider the experiences that shape each individual.
We start with conversation rather than easy answers: listening to different perspectives, challenging assumptions and creating environments where people are treated with dignity.
Explore school engagementFour conversation themes
Labels & Assumptions
What happens when labels become limits?
Potential & Opportunity
Who is overlooked because of expectations?
Digital Identity & Dignity
How can we protect the humanity of people online?