Bullying is a pervasive problem that affects individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds. It is estimated that 1 in 3 students report being bullied at school, while 1 in 4 workers report being bullied at work. In response to this issue, the world has come together on February 24th to observe International Stand Up to Bullying Day. This day is dedicated to promoting awareness and education about bullying, and empowering individuals to take a stand against it.
“Bullying has a lasting impact on those who experience it,” says psychologist Dr. Susan White. “It can cause feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, and even depression. It’s important that we work together to put a stop to bullying and create a safe and supportive environment for everyone.”
The history of International Stand Up to Bullying Day can be traced back to 2005, when the organization Stand for the Silent was founded in response to the suicide of a young boy who had been bullied. Over the years, this day has gained worldwide recognition, with individuals and organizations from all over the world joining in the fight against bullying.
“International Stand Up to Bullying Day is an opportunity for individuals to show their support and make a difference,” says Stand for the Silent founder Kirk Smalley. “By taking a stand against bullying, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe.”
How can you get involved in 2023:
- Start a conversation: Use International Stand Up to Bullying Day as an opportunity to talk to friends, family, and coworkers about the issue of bullying. Encourage them to take a stand against it and spread awareness.
- Wear orange: Wear orange on February 24th to show your support for International Stand Up to Bullying Day. Orange is the color of unity and hope, and it symbolizes the fight against bullying.
- Get involved in your community: Partner with local organizations and schools to host events, activities, and workshops that promote anti-bullying education and awareness.
- Share your story: If you have been affected by bullying, consider sharing your story to raise awareness and inspire others to take a stand against it.
- Spread the word: Use social media to spread the word about International Stand Up to Bullying Day. Share articles, videos, and infographics that promote anti-bullying education and encourage others to get involved.
Bullying Fast Facts:
- Bullying happens to someone in Canada every 7 minutes on the playground. (Bullying.org).
- Bullying happens in many different forms. It’s doing, saying or acting in a way that hurts someone else or makes him or her feel bad on purpose. (Verbal, physical, social, extortion, cyber bullying).
- 50% of Canadian school children report being bullied and 45% of children surveyed do not feel safe when they go to school. (Bullying Study, University of Guelph).
- 34% of Canadians surveyed knew of students in their community who had been targeted by cyber bullying in the past year
- 35% of workers have experienced workplace bullying first hand
- Children who are bullied are at risk for impaired social development, mental and physical illnesses, suicide and school absenteeism.
- Direct Bullying: open attacks, physical, threats, teasing
- Indirect Bullying: attempts to harm social position including exclusion & gossip
- Bullying is aggressive behavior that involves unwanted, negative actions
- Bullying involves a pattern of behavior repeated over time
- Bullying involves an imbalance of power or strength
International Stand Up to Bullying Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the issue of bullying and empower individuals to take a stand against it. By working together, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe
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