Mission Statement

BAND Against Bullying was created in 2012 as a dignity themed inter-school performing arts competition to:

Raise community awareness of bullying related issues and empower youth to be advocates of change; and
Raise funds to support bullying prevention and intervention efforts in the community.

Current Challenge

Bullying and harassment occur frequently among youth (1 out of 3 students are involved as perpetrator, target or both). Bullying and harassment can contribute to anxiety, depression, problems establishing personal relationships, academic struggles, and can impact all of those involved.

There is unprecedented attention to these issues in the media, legislation (i.e. The Dignity for All Students Act, effective July 2012) and the general public. Schools are at the forefront of bullying awareness and prevention efforts. Youth involvement and leadership are critical to the success of these efforts in creating 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.