A Fifth Grader’s Speech Against Bullying

Tammi had interned at Hands of Hope and currently is the administrative assistant at Family Service Society, Inc.

Tammi’s daughter, Mia, who attends Northview Elementary School in Gas City had told her mom she had written a speech about BULLYING. What touched Tammi’s heart is that while her daughter had never experienced bullying, she had chosen that cause to stand for in an attempt to be nominated to the student council. And, even more impressive, was that her daughter had not asked for a cause to rally behind from her mom. Mia had written the speech and then asked her mom if she wanted to hear it.

As an advocate for ending domestic violence, which includes bullying, Tammi knew I would be impressed – and I am. So impressed, I wanted to share Tammi’s daughter’s speech with everyone. So, with Tammi and her daughter’s permission, her is the speech in its entirety and unedited.

Dear Class,

I think that you should choose me for student council because I could help people to stop bullying and be nice to each other at all times. If bullying is happening to you, you should especially choose me because I can prevent bullying from happening to you. Even if bullying isn’t happening to you, then you should also pick me because don’t you want to stay from not being bullied? If you have ever bullied anyone then think about what you are going to say before you say it. If someone makes you mad you shouldn’t react in anger you should agree with them or walk away and think about it. That’s my advice, so if you want to prevent bullying for you and all of your friends then pick me for student council.

If a fifth grader can take that kind of stand – unprompted by her mom, what can each of us do as adults.

It sure speaks volumes to me on the approach each one of us needs to take to empower and encourage others as we Lead with Respect. Stand with Respect. Live with Respect.

For additional information about Hands of Hope, a division of Family Service Society, Inc. call 664-0701.