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Incidents of bias-motivated bullying and harassment in New York schools are widespread and recurring.  Hundreds of students took part in Equality and Justice Day this year, giving firsthand accounts of the harassment and bullying that they and their peers endure each day. In light of the historically high number of students at this year’s Equality and Justice Day, we must ensure the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) becomes law.

The environment of bias-based harassment makes it difficult for some students to feel safe at school, and nearly impossible for them to learn.  Unfortunately, and in spite of its prevalence, schools are often unprepared to adequately address problems of discrimination and harassment.  The state and its elected officials have a role in promoting respect for diversity in the public school setting, and in fostering a learning environment that is free of bias and discrimination.  The Dignity for All Students Act seeks to do just that. 

The bill would specifically prohibit discrimination and harassment, including "verbal threats, intimidation or abuse," based upon a person's race, color, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex" and would apply to school employees and students when on school property or at a school function.  The Dignity for All Students Act also offers a comprehensive program of instruction and counseling as well as interventions that can defuse conflict and promote tolerance, to give schools the tools they need to successfully deal with bias-motivated harassment.

We need your help!  With time running out in the legislative session we need our legisalors to show leadership in the Senate. Take a second and send a fax to your Senator urging them to tell Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno to bring the Dignity for All Students Act to a vote now!

Feel free to edit the letter to include your story or personal experience with bullying or harassment.