Anti-Bullying Day

Anti-Bullying Day is May 4th

Anti-Bullying Day is a day when the world joins together to stand up against bullying in our schools, on the playground, and online on social media.There are several days throughout the year that celebrate this movement. These are special days that bring awareness and focus to help stop bullying, as well as standing up for those who are currently being bullied.

Parents, teachers and kids of all ages can all work together to ensure no one is ever bullied. Kids can do their part by being a friend to those who are victims of bullying and including them in activities with their group of friends. Even the simple act of sitting with someone in the lunchroom can go a long way to help them feel like they are not alone.

The Origins of Anti-Bullying Day

The idea of Anti-Bullying Day began in Canada in 2007. It’s also called Pink Shirt Day in Canada. It began when people came to the defense of a boy who was bullied simply because he wore a pink shirt to school. This is why there is also another day called International Day of Pink. Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and New Zealand will honor “International STAND UP to Bullying Day” on February 28th or 29th. Schools may call the day by different names, but the goal is always the same; to stop bullying and help those who are currently being bullied.

The United Nations declared every May 4th as International Anti-Bullying Day. Regardless of when it's commemorated, it’s vital for all of us to speak out against bullying. It’s a reminder to stand alongside those who are bullied – regardless of their age, race, or gender.

Bullying has been around long before we even acknowledged it as a global problem. It only takes one person who feels the need to ‘get their kicks’ out of picking on someone. The invention of the Internet has rapidly spread the problem. Bullies now have the ability to reach their victims at home through social media. This is called Cyber Bullying.

If You Are Being Bullied

The first step is to tell an adult you trust. They can guide you in what you can do to help it stop. Talk to someone about how you can stand up for yourself in a safe way, or do something else to prevent it from happening again. Don’t be afraid to block or hide someone from view on social media. You may even decide that a particular social media platform is not for you and delete your account altogether.

Bullying and Prevention

No matter where bullying takes place, it’s important for kids to also stand up against bullying or cyberbullying. If you know of someone who is being bullied, tell your parents, a teacher, or school counselor. There are also other things you can personally do to help. Sometimes helping means just being a friend to someone who doesn’t have one. On social media you can stand up for someone by speaking out against harmful comments about another person. Also, communicating to others if they are taking part in bullying or removing connections and making healthy boundaries if/when you know of someone who is bullying. Bystander syndrome is a real thing, don't be someone who just lets bullying happen, especially if you see it occurring - obviously make sure you are finding help or interacting safely.

Important Questions to Ask

Do you see someone who needs a friend?
Do know of someone who is being bullied?
Maybe you are the one who is being bullied.
Maybe you are the one who is being a bully.

How Will You Make a Difference on Anti-Bullying Day?

So, whether your school or community commemorates Anti-Bullying Day, it’s important to remember that everyone can make a difference. Remember, a large group of people saying NO to bullying is made up of individuals. If everyone said they can’t make a difference just because they are only one person, many great causes around the world would lose their power. That’s often referred to as “The Power of One”.