World Anti Bullying Day

"On Thursday, February 28th, Oakridge International School celebrated World Anti Bullying day during the morning assembly. The assembly was a tribute to those that have been a victim of the horrible consequences of bullying. It began with a very beautiful and uplifting song sung by Rohini, Palashika, and Apoorva followed by an enactment without dialogue pertaining to bullying in school. The story was of two students, just like the rest of us, hurt and tortured socially, verbally, and physically. Such a situation is all too familiar, when one is subject to direct attacks such as teasing, taunting, and threatening. Or in contrast, bullying may also be indirect when someone is ostracized through intentional exclusion. This type of abuse is very common in schools, as shown in a thought- provoking video emphasizing the negativity of bullying. The video highlighted that if bullying occurs in school, the pain seems to never end and it can make an individual feel that there is no hope, leading to depression and a decline in academic performance. The main problem arises when the victim is unable to stand up for themselves; when they keep all their worries hidden from their friends and family. One must break free from the vicious cycle of bullying which is the main message of the student organized play, along with the video. Only through compassion, empathy and support from those you can trust, this can be possible. The aim of the assembly was to show that you are never alone; bullying should not be accepted without a fight and you should stand up for yourself. If it’s not possible to do on your own, then there is nothing wrong in asking for help. To solve the problem, the first step is admitting to it, and next step forward is to seek assistance. Otherwise the circumstance would remain the same, without any progress. The power is within all of us, and we can be the change that we wish to see" - Anuradha Roy (IBDP XI)