There are many groups that face bullying here in the USA. There are young children, adults, elders, and the physically and mentally disabled. Religion and sexual orientation are also prime targets for bullying. Bullies physically and verbally attack other students which goes against any policy that deals with physical and verbal assault. These acts go against the people’s civil rights and they need to be punished for their actions.
Schools that receive federal funding are required by federal law to address discrimination and bullying. Inversely, schools that do not receive federal funding are not required to hold such policies within the school. This is something that can really put some children at risk at being bullied and being seriously injured physically and emotionally. Because of this, schools could potentially be sued due to their inability to protect a child who is being bullied. Bullying and discriminatory harassment are covered under federal civil rights laws enforced by the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Justice. Schools are obligated by these laws to address conduct that is:
- Severe, pervasive or persistent
- Creates a hostile environment at school that interferes with or limits a student’s ability to participate in the services, activities, or opportunities offered by a school
- Based on a student’s race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or religion
If schools and other public establishments took consideration into the bullying subject, they could really make a difference in our community and could lessen the rate at which young people get bullied. Bullying has really had an awful impact on our society and it must be put to an end.
Tony R.