Stand up for those who are bullied
It is estimated that 160,000 children miss school every day due to fear of attack or intimidation by other students. Bullying has become a major concern throughout the country. Suicide rates have increased these past years mainly due to technology and Internet.
I have become inspired after viewing Ellen DeGeneres’ episode “Unite Against Bullying.” As she spoke about bullying, I began to reminisce about my experience in grade school, when a group of girls would constantly call me inappropriate names, which I later began to believe. Bullying changed the course of my life, physically, emotionally and mentally.
Ellen gave me that feeling of protection as she stood up for those who were bullied. In her episode, she presented a documentary called “Bully” in which children spoke about their experience with bullying, as well as parents whose children committed suicide due to the bullying that went on at school. The film received an “R” rating, persuading Ellen to sign a petition in order to change the rating and allow the film to be shown in classrooms.
No child should fear going to school. After this episode, I have learned furthermore that I am not alone and I will continue to stand up for others with greater power.
Ilse Perez
Des Plaines