When a committee seeks to make Summerland a bully-free community, it is easy to feel good about the efforts and intentions.
For many years, schools in Summerland and beyond have been working to address the problem of bullying, but bullying does not begin or end at school. There are far too many cases of domestic violence, elder abuse and bullying in the workplace, either by a tyrannical boss or an inconsiderate coworker.
And in a world where cyber-bullying has now been added to our vocabulary, it is important to recognize and address the problem of bullying.
It is high time this problem was identified as something which affects all ages, not just students.
Still, one cannot help but wonder whether any anti-bullying initiatives are nothing more than exercises in futility.
Despite the efforts to stop bullying, there are reports of abusive behaviour in the news each year. Other incidents do not gain the same attention, but they still take their toll on those involved.
The story of Amanda Todd is one example of what can happen when bullying goes unchecked. But there are other stories too, some from right here in Summerland. They might not have ended as tragically as Todd’s story, but the victims have been seriously affected by what they have suffered.
Over the years, many have spoken out against bullying and many more will agree with that message. There is something to be said for raising the profile of an ongoing problem.
Still, talk is cheap. A strong statement against bullying is meaningless unless it also results in a change of attitudes and a change of actions.
This involves challenging some long-held ideas and behaviours.
At best, it will prove to be a long and difficult task.
