A number of new anti-bullying resources are being provided to Saskatchewan schools today to assist students and teachers as they work to end bullying and create more caring and inclusive schools. The resources include several videos that have been developed as a package called the Student First Anti-Bullying Forum.
Schools are encouraged to use the resources, in advance of Red Cross Pink Day on February 22.
“I hope all students in this province know that they are important and valued, and that they deserve to feel respected in our schools,” said Don Morgan, Deputy Premier and Education Minister.
“It takes incredible courage to stand up to bullying but please, if you or someone you know needs help, speak up. The safety and well-being of every student is important to me, to their teachers and to those who love them.”
This year’s forum resources will be available until the end of the school year, giving schools the opportunity to participate throughout the school year. The theme of this year’s forum is “Our School Includes Everyone”.
The forum resources include keynote video addresses by “We Matter” campaign co-founders Kelvin and Tunchai Redvers as well as president of the assembly of First Nations National Youth Council Jennifer O’Bomsawin.
The Redvers’ launched www.wemattercampaign.org in October 2016 to bring messages of hope and support to Indigenous youth across Canada, and to remind them of why their lives matter. Since launching, the campaign has reached more than one million people through social media.
“Respect and inclusiveness often doesn’t happen by accident, it takes action, compassion and active dialog,”said Kelvin Redvers. “It’s important to have these conversations, to take the time to engage and talk with our young people about how we can create positive spaces, as the results benefit our schools and the country. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.”
The Youth Forum also reminds students of the resources available to them if they experience bullying or know of someone who needs help.
Students are encouraged to: talk to a trusted adult; report bullying anonymously online at www.iamstronger.ca; or call Kids Help Phone or Saskatchewan Health Line 811. The online reporting tool, information about the forum and resources designed to help prevent bullying and cyberbullying are available at www.iamstronger.ca.
I am Stronger is a SaskTel initiative supported by the Ministry of Education that works to promote better emotional health for Saskatchewan’s children and youth, particularly in schools. The Youth Forum and online bullying reporting tool are key actions undertaken by the Ministry of Education to support the recommendations from Saskatchewan’s Action Plan to Address Bullying and Cyberbullying.
