When I travel the world, I try to meet with people to talk about
what’s happening in their communities and countries. And one of the
things I see wherever I go is that communities that foster tolerance and
accept diversity tend to be more prosperous, successful, and just plain
better places to live. Strong societies draw strength from the talents
of women, people with disabilities, religious minorities, LGBT people
and those of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. That’s just as true
in the United States as it is everywhere else.
Today, across North America, students and teachers are coming
together to take a stand against bullying. Building communities of
tolerance is something every person can contribute to—in your school, in
your workplace, where you worship, and in the streets of your town.
If you see someone being bullied—speak up.
If you’re being bullied—reach out. To a teacher, to a hotline, to a
friend. Know that you are not alone. Help is available. We all want you
to hang in there.
And if you are bullying someone else—take a hard look at your actions
and the pain you cause. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or social—
bullying is wrong.
We can all contribute to more tolerant, supportive environments and to stamping out bullying wherever it happens.