It's a shame - in this day and age - that there is a need for such a week of awareness but the need IS real.
This week has been set aside to heighten awareness surrounding bullying - both in Yorkton and across the country. With teens committing suicide and children coming home in tears daily we need to take action to curb the bullying trend and ensure all children feel safe in their environments.
This week, along with local concerned groups, the government announced it will be doing it's part to step up to the plate and help out.
"No child should ever have to experience bullying," Education Minister Don Morgan comments. "Unfortunately, that is the reality for a number of students across the country and right here in our own province."
A number of recommendations have been put forth to put a stop to what's happening. They include: developing an anonymous online reporting tool for the reporting of bullying incidents; assessing the implications for Saskatchewan of upcoming federal cyberbullying legislation; supporting students to develop appropriate and responsible online behaviour; providing a stand-alone website for anti-bullying tools and resources for students, families and educators; and, engaging youth in building solutions to address bullying.
These initiatives are all a step in the right direction and it's up to you and I to get on board to ensure change comes about.
Bullying, in any shape or form is wrong. If we educate, observe and take action, if we refuse to tolerate it, it can't exist. Not just this week, but every week and every day, let's vow to do our part to keep our children safe. Let's say "NO" to bullies.
