Bullying is one of the most notorious acts that happen, every day all around the world, the United States and in our schools. Although it is a disheartening act, 28% of students in grades 6-12 experience bullying, and 70.6% of young people have witnessed bullying. Bullying happens every day either in classrooms, on the playground, on social media, or even in the neighborhood coming home from school.

 Every October, people young and old come together to spread awareness of the disease-like act that kills many students’ self-esteem. October is a month that allows parents and the community to rise against bullies and spread awareness through the many groups that they are a part of. Some of these awareness groups are the Trevor Project, the Kind Campaign, and Stomp Out Bullying. These campaigns spread the word about bullying and how it hurts people by sharing personal stories or selling merchandise. They give outlets to people who feel attacked and affected by bullying and oppression. Kids come to people who care about them and are willing to help them through their tough time.

 Wearing the color blue symbolizes people’s support towards victims of bullying and allows them to spread the awareness. Blue symbolizes remorse and care as organizations and individuals around the world stand up together to fight against bullies. Wear blue throughout the month of October to spread awareness to everyone you come in contact with. Junior Lindsay Barnes said, “In my opinion, bullying is a serious national issue. Kids all around the world, of all ages, are targeted by bullies. My advice to victims and to bystanders is to stop taking it in and let someone know.” The best advice to give to anyone who is being bullied or to a bystander who witnesses someone being bullied is to stand up and tell someone. There is no reason to keep it inside because the situation has the potential to get worse.