Anti-Bullying day recognized at Standard School

Times Contributor

 

Once again the entire Standard School student body showed their true colors, wearing PINK on Feb. 29 to recognize and show support for the anti-bullying day.

Every seven seconds in Canada, a child is bullied. This alarming statistic fuels the passion that is behind the now annual events held across Canada for campaign Pink Shirt Day. Students across Canada show their support by wearing pink to symbolize that bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.

In this age of technology “cyber-bullying” is becoming far too prevalent in today’s society. Twittering, Facebook and cyber texting are quickly becoming avenues for major bullying. RCMP have said they are able to “track” such events if they are made aware of the problems. The flip side of social networking is that young people are beginning to use cyber space to look after each other, becoming “digital first responders” said Sr. Victoria Police Officer Darren Laur.

So what kind of bullying happens online? A popular sort is various kinds of polls such as: Who’s the ugliest student, sluttiest girl? Students want to show off, or are seeking validation, love, drama or want to get even. Fighting events are becoming group events and students are informed instantly on their phones to attend and “cyber-texting” is far more efficient than word of mouth.

Long gone are the days of  “sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me.” The power of words and innuendos are often more hurtful and have a lasting effect on youth.

Next it would be good to see all schools and even businesses participate in some way to continue to show support for the cause. For more information go to pinkshirtday.ca.