About Us

 

History & Mission 

BAND (Banding All Needs for Dignity) Against Bullying was founded in 2012 as an inter-school performing arts competition focused on one central theme: dignity. Each year, the event is held as an effort to raise community awareness of bullying-related issues, empower youth to be advocates of change, and to support bullying prevention and intervention efforts within the schools.   

Current Challenge

One out of three students will be involved in a bullying incident – either as a perpetrator, target, or both. The effects of bullying can be staggering. Students who are targeted are at an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and dropping out of school. Those who are the source of bullying and harassing behavior are also affected, being more prone to mental health and behavioral issues.

While schools are at the forefront of many bullying prevention efforts and policies, they face competing priorities and budgetary restrictions that prevent them fully limiting this behavior among students. This is why youth empowerment is so crucial. When students feel empowered, they can become advocates for change.

Dignity for All Students Act

The Dignity for All Students Act was signed into law on September 13, 2010, and took effect on July 1, 2012. In accordance with the New York State Government, the Dignity for All Students Act, otherwise know as DASA, aims to create a safe and supportive learning environment for public elementary and secondary school students while on school property, school buses and at school functions.

DASA protects students from discrimination, intimidation, harassment, bullying, and taunting. It prohibits bullying and harassment based on a student’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender. The legislation also includes instruction in civility, citizenship and character education.

You can learn more about DASA on the New York State Education Department website.