Cambria County, PA — A wide variety of perspectives were shared at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown's campus on Thursday, as panelists and local residents discussed the issue of bullying in our communities.
The event began with a show of hands to who has been the victim of bullying. Most people in the room say they are, or were a victim.
“Careful of the things you do. Children will listen. Careful of the things you do. Children will see and learn.” says Sam Fuge, Counselor, Dr. Mary Berge & associates.
Along with discussion of being proactive and holding people accountable for bullying incidents, experts say making sure that the children are heard is important.
“We need to invest in our kids and show them that they all matter, that they care, and that we’re interested in what they have going on.” says PJ Shell, Co-founder of Maverick’s Mission.
“How are we going to help the victim, and how are we going to help the offender? Because in reality, both parties have something going on with them.” Director of Education, Educational Development Software, Jim Budzilek says.
Local state representative Jim Rigby says legislation was recently passed in the House, and is working its way to Governor Shapiro’s desk.
Rigby says it pushes for a suicide hotline number to be mandated on student I.D. Cards.
“As long as there’s a 24/7 hotline number, it's something that the students would have at their disposal, if they felt that need to make that call, to reach out to somebody. If they didn’t feel comfortable speaking to a family member, or an adult they knew.” says Rigby.
Everyone I spoke with after the town hall event say they’re thankful for the awareness it brings.
“Really liked the discussion and it was really good to just bring all of this to life.” says Logan Bethmann, an attendee at the town hall.
“I think it was very informative. I was bullied as a kid” says Sandy Albright, another attendee.
“...It’s not fun. It's not something anyone wants to deal with, but it happens.” Albright says.
To watch a recording of the full bullying town hall, click here.
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