Kind Vibes Only: CPSO hosts one-mile anti-bullying walk
Published 10:21 am Friday, September 17, 2021
- Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. (Metro Creative Graphics)
One in five students reported being bullied in 2019. They were made fun of, called names, insulted, the subject of rumors, pushed, shoved, tripped or spit on. Some were excluded from activities on purpose, according to the National Center for Education Statistics and Bureau of Justice.
In a quest to return to some semblance of normalcy in a challenging year and educate students and parents about bullying, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department is sponsoring Kind Vibes Only!
“We are looking forward to reviving this and other youth programs put aside a year ago,” Mancuso said.
The CPSB’s 6th anti-bullying one-mile walk will be held Saturday, Oct. 2, from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheater at 900 N. Lakeshore Dr. The free event is designed to reach youth who are eight to 12 years of age.
“Sadly, a bully is a bully,” said Sheriff Tony Mancuso. “I think there are bullies in the adult world. I know there are. You probably know one. We all do. The difference is we have the ability to stay away from them. In the school setting, kids may not have that luxury and some kids haven’t learned that skill.”
The Kind Vibes Only Anti-Bullying Walk will help children build those skills including how to recognize and stay away and not be sucked into their controlling trap.
“We’re all tired and worn out,” he said. “But this is one of those community events that allow us to put our best face on because pouting about it, being mad about it is not going to fix it. We have to make the best of it and get past it and we will get past it. When we do, we’ll be stronger as a result.”
Treating others with respect and standing up for others goes a long way to prevent bullying in the adult and child’s world. Most bullying in schools happens when adults are not around. If it does happen, it’s important for students to talk to an adult that can be trusted.
In addition to the one-mile walk along the sea wall, other activities are scheduled. Vendors will provide information and “Stuff We All Get” (SWAG). Enjoy face painting, bounce houses, free hot dogs and DJ-provided music. For more information, call 337-884-4049.
