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Sirdeaner L. Walker It is well with my soul. It is well with my soul. I am very thankful
to the Governor, Governor Patrick and the Massachusetts Legislature for bringing attention
to the crisis of bullying and harassment in our Commonwealth schools. Passing this bill
is a watershed moment, but the work does not end here indeed it’s just the beginning.
Next, and perhaps more important is the implementation of provisions in the bill. We must ensure
that we protect those youth most victimized by bullying. That means that specifically
naming the classifications of persons who have historically and disproportionately been
the subjects of bullying and harassment.
My son Carl took his life just over a year ago. He was bullied with anti-gay remarks.
And Phoebe Prince took her life just a few months ago after relentless and sexist bullying.
The sexist and homophobic bullying that Phoebe and Carl faced is all too common and evidence
shows that school officials often do not recognize this kind of bullying and harassment as unacceptable.
I will continue to work with Glsen to pass the Safe Schools Improvement Act federal anti-bullying
legislation that would ensure that all of our students across this great country are
equally protected from the bullying crisis we are facing. We need to teach our children
the simple message of respect for all. This is not about criminalizing bullying but about
preventing bullying through education. My son Carl was denied a life-time of opportunities.
I will continue this work to ensure no other child has to endure what my son went through
and that no other family suffers as mine has. The Lord is good a refuge in a time of trouble
he takes care of those who trust in him. And I trusted in the Lord and this would be Carl’s
legacy that this anti-bullying law is now in place in our great Commonwealth and that
our children will be safe. I thank you so much God bless you all. God bless you Governor.