1/Yesterday, after more than two years, enough clouds had dissipated to see the sky again. Kate’s family, friends, neighbours, mentors and partners gathered from across her life to fondly remember someone who profoundly impacted ours. 🧵
2/Each of us a separate patch of a quilt she never had the opportunity to see together. Over many many hours we told stories, shared memories and cried. It was a sad day but deeply healing.
3/I didn’t know what to expect. Though some of us had chatted, I’d never met Kate’s fierce friends from the late 80s. Unsurprising from former debate champions, their speeches were breathtakingly good. But more impressive was their compassion and care.
4/As Kate would have wanted, everything was on the table. We talked about her brilliance and her struggles. We talked about her love and her loves. Kate’s story will never have a proper ending but at least we could finally celebrate her amazing life, warts and all.
5/Even in her death, she made a mark. Thousands gathered in support of victims of sexual assault at rallies organised by @janine_hendry and many others across the country. She moved the marker and hopefully the conversation in Australia.
6/While you weren’t invited to the memorial, you were part of her story too. The countless #JusticeForKate tweets amplified her story. The messages we received from strangers gave us hope and reassurance.
7/We also heard from victims of sexual assault. Those who had their own stories. Many who had yet to tell them but who were inspired to face their own demons. I think of you often. I hope you’re okay.
8/Massive thank you to @instanterudite for organising a day I’ll never forget. @nickryanwine for MCing and feeding me wine. All her friends. And especially to @Milliganreports; what you went through to tell Kate’s story is nothing short of incredible. Kate would have loved you.
This thread may be triggering.
Be kind and gentle with yourself.
1800 Respect: 1800 737 732
Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
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