It’s Anti-bullying week! This year, Anti-bullying week takes place November 15th to the 19th, with the theme ‘One Kind Word’.
Anti-bullying week is coordinated in England and Wales by the Anti-Bullying Alliance and began in the early 2000’s. It continues to be recognized all around the world, with a vision to stop bullying and create safer environments. With the past couple of years being difficult for many, spreading kindness is more important than ever. That’s why the 2021 theme ‘One Kind Word’ was chosen.
Bullying affects many young children, teenagers, and adults. It can take place at home, at work, and especially through technology (emails and text messages) and social networking. Those who are bullied often experience symptoms of depression, psychological distress, anxiety, and have increased risk of suicide. As students, teachers, parents, coworkers, and adults in the community, we can help stop and prevent bullying. By listening and observing, we can recognize and address it. Then, we can take steps to create an environment where it cannot continue.
We encourage you to say ‘One Kind Word’ or phrase to someone this week to lift their mood and spread positivity and kindness. Feeling seen, heard, and appreciated is so uplifting! Our words carry so much power, it’s amazing the way kind words can make someone’s day a little brighter.
“In a world that can sometimes feel like it’s filled with negativity, one kind word can provide a moment of hope. It can be a turning point. It can change someone’s perspective. It can change their day. It can change the course of a conversation and break the cycle of bullying.”
(Anti-Bullying Alliance)
Happy Anti-Bullying Week!