Dozens gather for "Step In, Speak Out!" Bullying Prevention Rally

Posted at: 10/06/2012 5:47 PM | Updated at: 10/07/2012 9:09 AM
By: Joangel Concepcion | WHEC.com

Bullying is something that can happen anywhere to anyone... but Monroe County is continuing its mission to prevent bullying from happening altogether.

On Saturday, dozens came together on Saturday morning at the Highland Bowl to encourage people of all ages to stand up against bullying.

Local professionals say bullying is a topic that needs to be addressed on a daily basis. This particular bully prevention rally was designed to help people "step in and speak out" against the issue.

Several teenagers and parents came together on Saturday for a couple of hours to discuss bullying prevention. It was also a chance for people to share their own experiences about how bullying has affected them and how they got through it.

Government officials were also there to share moving speeches through out the event. Many families turned this into a family fun day... there was food, tons of games, performances and even a martial arts demo.

Families also learned about several resources in the community, something organizers say can help families tackle the issue of bullying together.

Elizabeth Meeker, the organizer of the event, says, "It is critically important, because it helps kids to know that they are not alone and that a lot of kids unfortunately go through this. But again if we can kind of come together, especially to role of the bystanders, other kids, if they can, come and support someone who might be a target... it can help turn things around."

This bullying prevention rally is part of a movement in Monroe County. It's the continuation of County Executive Maggie Brooks' call to action that kicked off in March.

It's a seven-step event so we'll be sure to see even more events through out the remainder of the year.

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