By Walter Boomsma, MSG Communications Director
The National Center for Bullying Prevention initiated National Bullying Prevention Month. The campaign is designed to unite communities nationwide through education and awareness. Much attention is rightly given to preventing bullying among kids, but adults can be victims as well.
This year, October 16 has been declared Unity Day. Wearing orange will increase awareness and encourage kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. That sure sounds like something the Grange does! We don’t stop with wearing orange–“we help build community throughout the year.”
In a simple sense, bullying is about power and communication. Our words and actions are important, and words can be powerful, both in a negative and positive way.
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
Attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt
I believe that an important aspect of preventing bullying is building resilience and strength in potential victims. “Where you fly makes a difference.” We can start with ourselves, certainly. But a question worthy of discussion is “What is our Grange doing to promote kindness in our Grange and our Community?”
(Family Health And Hearing Committees take note! Can you provide some resources for members? Maybe include some thoughts in your next report?)
Some Resources:
StopBullying.gov: A comprehensive resource from the U.S. government that provides information on recognizing, preventing, and responding to bullying.
PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center: Offers resources for students, parents, and educators, including toolkits and educational materials.
The Trevor Project: Focuses on LGBTQ+ youth, providing support and resources to prevent bullying and promote mental health.
National Bullying Prevention Month: An annual campaign in October that raises awareness and encourages communities to take action against bullying.
Stomp Out Bullying: Provides resources, support, and information for students and parents to address bullying and cyberbullying.
There are also some mental health resources on my website.