The Pink Shirt Day movement, started by two high school boys who wanted to support someone being bullied, is now worldwide; educating and inspiring others to stand together and take action against violence and bullying. It is recognized on the last Wednesday in February, this year on February 26th, and sponsored in Saskatchewan by K+S.
Bullying is not limited to youth but also happens in workplaces, organizations, and relationships.
Bullying can be:
Verbal: usually involving taunts, name-calling, put-downs, slurs, offensive gestures, incessant mocking, threats, intimidation and laughing at someone else's expense;
Social: excluding, ganging up, ridiculing, gossiping, spreading rumours, stealing of money and possessions;
Physical: involving physical harm often from kicking, punching, hair pulling, pinching and pushing;
Sexual: involving unwanted physical contact or sexually inappropriate comments; and
Cyber: using a computer or other technology to forward or spread hurtful messages and/or images.
Our government recognizes that with accurate information and resources, the kindness of the people of our province will reduce bullying in Saskatchewan. Partnerships between the Ministry of Education, SaskSport, Red Cross and SaskTel provide resources and support to youth, parents, teachers, coaches and anyone who wants to be empowered to reduce bullying.
Last fall, the Government and Sask Sport Inc. teamed up to launch a joint marketing campaign to increase awareness on the tools and resources available to assist coaches, athletes and parents on bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination in sport. The marketing campaign will increase awareness and use of important resources, contacts and training available online. Expert staff provide information, bilingual support, resources and referrals by phone, text or email. This confidential and anonymous resource is intended to assist coaches, athletes and parents in determining the most appropriate course of action.
The Canadian Red Cross “Beyond the Hurt” program supports a school or organization-wide approach to preventing bullying and building empathy and respect. “Beyond the Hurt” resources are available for youth and adults. Resource content can also be incorporated into the Health curriculum in classrooms.
Cyberbullying is a serious issue that shouldn’t be underestimated, sometimes difficult to grasp for those of us who grew up in a different age. With SaskTel’s “Be Kind Online” website, one can:
- Report incidents of bullying or cyber-bullying
- Access reliable resources to take action to prevent bullying or cyber-bullying; or
- Apply for a Be Kind Online grant of up to $1,000 for youth to influence positive social change in their schools, communities and online.
Whether it’s cyberbullying, or bullying in our schools, workplaces, or sports, the role of the bystander or someone trusted is extremely important. Having the right tools and information can end the bullying or stop it before it even starts. Supporting someone, particularly children, with non-judgemental listening, taking their concerns seriously, and helping them access appropriate help can make a huge difference in their future. Wearing a pink shirt on Wednesday, February 26, will send a message that you care and are ready to help stop bullying.
The Spring Legislative Session will start next Monday. Moving forward with Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan will be a main focus. If you have thoughts to share as I represent you at the Legislature, please contact our Constituency Office.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
