Governor Patrick Joins Hundreds Of Students Participating In 'No Name Calling Day' To Promote Anti-Bullying Awareness

today joined hundreds of students from across the Commonwealth participating in “No Name Calling Day” to raise awareness and take a stand against bullying in our schools. participated today by wearing black to school to symbolizing their stance against bullying.

As part of today's events and activities across the state, Governor Patrick held an event at Collins Middle School in Salem where hundreds of students wore black and signed a banner pledging to “Black Out Bullying.”

"I am so proud to see these young people standing up and leading the charge to 'Black Out Bullying' in our schools," said Governor Patrick. "'No Name Calling Day' is about the idea that each of us has the power to stand up and take ownership of our community. One voice has the power to become many and effect meaningful change." 

A provision of the signed by Governor Patrick in May 2010, “No Name Calling Day” is recognized in classrooms across the Commonwealth on January 25. Working with superintendents and school leadership, the Governor's Youth Council led events and activities today in: Quincy, Weymouth, Hyannis, New Bedford, Martha's Vinyard, Nantucket, Greenfield, South Hadley, Hopedale, Somerville and Boston.

"We need to foster safe environments for students, and 'No Name Calling Day' is an initiative to help raise awareness that bullying should not be tolerated," said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray. "I hope that on this day and throughout the year, students feel protected and safe in their schools and communities."

"'No Name Calling Day' and the 'Black Out Bullying' initiative are going to play essential roles in moving towards a culture in the Commonwealth of zero tolerance for bullying," said Victor (Manny) Cruz, chair of the Governor's Youth Council. "This is a unique opportunity to spread awareness, and inspire educators, youth and parents to come together to build a safer and empathetic learning environment for everyone."

At Collins Middle School in Salem today, Governor Patrick joined Principal Mary Manning, Conflict Intervention Coordinator Brad Maloon and local elected officials taking part in the event. Among its efforts to create safe learning environments for its students, the Salem public school district has been working closely with the Essex County District Attorney’s Office on bullying prevention initiatives that include Stop Bullying Before it Starts, a bullying prevention awareness program for students and Think Before You Send, a digital communication program that addresses cell phone use, social media and internet safety.

-Press release contributed by the Governor's Office.