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ANTI-BULLYING LEGISLATION TALKING POINTS

Bullying of students is a major and persistent problem.

An Oakland Schools survey of 200 high school students found that 84% said they had witnessed someone being bullied and 98% said they had witnessed teasing, insulting or rumors being spread about another student.

Bullying leads to a variety of negative consequences including violence.

The climate of fear created by bullies may result in increased absenteeism, decreased academic performance, and increased risk of suicide. Frequently it even leads to vandalism and violence.

Educators and administrators want to help but need direction.

Without clear direction about what behavior is prohibited and how to address and prevent it, many school officials may not act when necessary. Many educators and students will not protect gay youth for fear of being considered gay themselves, unless they have guidance to do so.

Youth perceived to be different are at greatest risk.

Any child that is marginalized as “other” is at risk for bullying. Schools should create a safe environment for all youth allowing equal educational opportunities.

The Model Code of Student Conduct includes “sexual orientation”.

This bill would be consistent with Michigan’s Model Code of Student Conduct, which also prohibits harassment based on sexual orientation. It would also be consistent with policies passed by the Michigan Board of Education.

More than 84% of LGBT students report being verbally harassed because of their sexual orientation and nearly 40% report physical harassment. More than 90% of LGBT students regularly hear anti-LGBT comments at school. 85% of LGBT students report that faculty or staff never intervened or intervened only some of the time. (“State of the States Report from GLSEN)

Michigan should be pro-active against bullying.

Michigan should work to prevent harassment and bullying before it occurs. This bill brings Michigan closer to fulfilling the promise of equal protection under the law and safe schools for everybody.

Bullying is a public health issue.

Few things are as humiliating for a young person, than being harassed because of their perceived sexual orientation. Being humiliated by peers can lead to students acting out in anti-social, destructive and even dangerous behavior. Anti-gay bullying can lead to diminished safety for heterosexuals.

Anti-Bullying legislation has strong support in Michigan and elsewhere.
Colorado and Washington State have both passed similar legislation.