Before 2011, the third week of November was the unofficial
National Bullying Awareness Week. Now, thanks to the efforts of local radio
host Ace Burpee, the week is officially recognized by the Canadian Government.
This year the National Bullying Awareness Week fell between November 12th and 17th. With Virgin Radio leading much of the charge, plenty of local efforts were made to support the cause. Many of the programs in Winnipeg are not only offered during National Bullying Awareness Week, but also are available on different dates throughout the year.
Organized by the University of Manitoba, Bisons Against Bullying is a free program that reaches out to youth in grades 4, 5 and 6.
Bison Athletes visit schools to make interactive speeches and presentations on
the subject of bullying to kids. By telling stories of their own personal hardships and experiences with bullying, the athletes are able to relate to the youth and make the program a hit.
The Rainbow Resource Centre focuses on creating a safe
community where LGBTT youth can gather to discuss their personal experiences of
bullying and develop resiliency. The Y.E.A.H (Youth Educating against
Homophobia) program provides presentations in schools which aim to celebrate
diversity, teach youth to identify and stop homophobia-based bullying and
encourage role models to step up.
The Youth Agencies Alliance is a group supported by The
United Way, which consists of organizations that serve the youth of Winnipeg.
For the National Bullying Awareness Week, the Alliance shared personal bullying
stories from people in Winnipeg on their facebook page. Additionally, the
United Way supports the Canadian Red Cross’s RespectED program, which visits schools
to present workshops on how to prevent and deal with violence and bullying.
The goals of the National Bullying Awareness Week are reflected
in the various programs available throughout Manitoba. All focus on educating
youth about issues of bullying to promote tolerance and responsiveness.
Source: United Way Winnipeg
