Gillian Triggs, former president of the Human Rights Commission, spoke at the annual dinner of the Xavier Social Justice Network (XSJN). The proceeds of the evening were directed to the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS).
In her talk, Triggs spoke of the importance of the rule of law and of respect for human rights, and of the current threats posed to them by government legislation about refugees, criminal justice and terrorism. She encouraged people to be attentive and to be vocal when responding to the misuse of executive power.
Carolina Gottardo, director of JRS, responded to the speaker, explaining the work of JRS and the latest crisis facing people who seek asylum.
Bronwen Kellett, coordinator of the XSJN, said she was delighted that so many people attended the dinner. They included a number of teachers and students from Xavier and Siena Colleges, and representatives from many other Jesuit works.