West Hollow Is No Place For Hate

 was recently recognized by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for its work in making their school community No Place for Hate. 

Approximately 350 students, educators and guests attended the No Place For Hate Recognition Ceremony at The New School Tishman Auditorium in Manhattan. Guest speakers and musical performances highlighted the event, but the real stars were the schools, each of which received a No Place For Hate 2010-2011 school banner. West Hollow was given special recognition as “Gold Star School” for its exceptional commitment to acceptance.

Throughout the year, West Hollow students participated in activities which aimed to create a safe learning environment by promoting unity and respect and reducing bullying and name-calling.

The Anti-Defamation League's No Place for Hate initiative offers students, teachers, administrators and families the opportunity to work together to combat prejudice and enhance a culture of respect in the school community. A special video presentation showcased the schools’ activities focusing on reducing bullying and promoting diversity and respect. The afternoon also featured musical performances by Broadway performer Kathy Deitch and the P.S. 22 Chorus, which performed at the 2011 Academy Awards. 

The students were greeted by Abraham H. Foxman, the National Director of ADL, who congratulated the students’ determination to take a stand against bullying.

Keynote speaker Jennifer Zarin spoke about her experience as a target of bullying due to a facial birthmark. She was able to turn that into something positive and created an online initiative, called “The Birthmark Project”, to help encourage self-acceptance and to celebrate and embrace what makes us different.