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School-based bullying has decreased for the first time since data have been collected, which is very encouraging. Yet, certain groups of youth may be at greater risk for bullying due to a perceived power imbalance. During bullying prevention awareness month, we featured the voices of some of these youth including those who:
- Are Muslim, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian
- Are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Questioning/Queer (LGBTQ)
- Are Native American/American Indian
- Have disabilities
The month of October also highlighted other important causes:
- October 11 was National Coming Out Day, a celebration of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.
- October 19 was Unity Day, a day to be united against bullying and for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.
- National Cyber Security Awareness Month raises awareness on how we can protect our children and youth against cyberbullying and harassment.
Here are some opportunities to learn about bullying and how to prevent it all year long:
- Learn more about the recommendations from the National Academies of Science consensus study on bullying prevention by attending the International Bullying Prevention Association annual conference in New Orleans on November 6-8, 2016.
- Parents can learn about bullying, the warning signs, and tips and tools for talking to your child and his or her school.
- Educators can establish a supportive and safe school environment.
- Communities - PDF can involve local professionals and citizens in bullying prevention activities, including the Bullying Prevention Training Module.
- Anyone can learn how to prevent bullying through the Bullying Prevention Continuing Education Online Course.
And remember: We all have the ability to make an impact on bullying.
#BullyingPreventionMonth ends! Tweet if you #StopBullying365 #bullying #prevention https://t.co/PmnnQ2b8uH pic.twitter.com/YI9BAbYGEI
— StopBullying.Gov (@StopBullyingGov) October 31, 2016