National Anti-Bullying Week From Nov 11 – 15
The Office of Youth Affairs [TOYA] invites “all of Bermuda to come together for National Anti-Bullying Week, between Monday, November 11th and Friday, November 15th, with the theme ‘Choose Respect.”
A Government spokesperson said, “Through a series of events, challenges, and celebrations, this campaign encourages youth, families, and the wider community to spread kindness, champion respect, and take a stand against bullying across our island.
“The #ChooseRespect Campaign is about more than raising awareness, it’s about creating a sense of belonging, empathy, and unity among our young people. Aligning with the Anti-Bullying Alliance UK and in partnership with schools, youth organizations and groups [YOGs] island-wide, TOYA is working to empower Bermuda’s youth to recognize the power of respectful interactions, open dialogue, and positive choices.
“Bullying is a critical issue that impacts the well-being and growth of young people in Bermuda daily. This initiative is part of the Bermuda Government’s National Youth Policy, to support youth by providing them opportunities to be more inclusive while developing the tools to handle conflicts with compassion and understanding.
“Throughout the week, TOYA will bring the #ChooseRespect message directly into schools, hosting interactive assemblies and workshops to help students understand the importance of empathy and kindness. In addition, we’re excited to announce the ‘Kindness Challenge’ where all students are invited to decorate Kindness Walls at their schools, sharing messages of positivity and creativity.
“This challenge will run from Tuesday, November 12th until Friday, November 22nd. Schools will send us photos of their walls and we invite the public to vote for the best Kindness Wall by giving likes on social media. The winning school will be awarded a special prize, with the winning announcement scheduled for Tuesday, November 26th.
“On Friday, November 15th, we’re inviting the entire community to join us for a #BullyFreeZone celebratory gathering at City Hall from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. This interactive event will be an afternoon of inspiration, including youth presentations, activities, and a special proclamation on anti-bullying, as we commit together to creating safe and welcoming spaces for our youth.”
Tinee Furbert, Minister of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, shared her wholehearted support for the week’s events stating, “Anti-Bullying Week gives our youth the encouragement to choose to respect each day, so that they can be a part of a future where they feel empowered and valued in every setting. Together, we’re building a Bermuda where every young voice matters.”
The spokesperson said, “With our schools, youth organizations and groups, community partners, and families working together, this year’s Anti-Bullying Week promises to be a meaningful step towards making Bermuda a more inclusive, respectful, and supportive place for everyone.
“Let’s all #ChooseRespect. To submit Kindness Wall photos and for more information email youthpolicy@gov.bm or call us 734-TOYA.”
Seriously? National Anti-Bullying Week! There is only one way to handle bullies. We all know it, but it is not politically correct to say it publicly.
Vote them out.