In society today, prejudice is a rising concern across schools, including American schools. However, many students are unaware that various schools nationwide have programs that recognize this rising issue and aim to include more respect in the classroom.
The origin of this program goes back to 1985, made to address community issues regarding topics such as discrimination. The program is gradually growing throughout the country and has helped students find their identity.
Fortunately, Aliso Niguel High School is lucky to have the club, “No Place for Hate” to stand against discrimination in our community and provide a welcoming campus for students.
Ms. Torres, the advisor for the program, says “The club’s purpose is to help combat prejudice on campus because we’ve had issues with that in the past, and overall it’s an inclusive group helping to improve the school’s culture.”
As the advisor, Ms. Torres hopes to foster a better school community where people are accepting of each other, and are more mindful of their actions. As students, It’s important to recognize our choice of words can truly affect someone.
The program has seen a lack of members and wishes to be better represented in hopes of making a difference in our community. The more members in the program increases the likelihood of the program being more successful.
Additionally, Ms. Torres adds, “We are trying to work on a big thing called unity week in Spring, where we will have a bunch of different activities going on.”
Ms. Torres hopes the upcoming activities will help engage the community and unite the students here on campus. The program wishes to motivate students to make a difference at our school.
American schools in general have suffered from extreme bullying cases, Nationwide, 19 percent of students have reported being bullied. Now, imagine the percentage with a statistic of those who don’t report getting bullied.
Negative attitudes toward individuals or groups should not be tolerated at school. “No Place for Hate” does its best to prevent bullying and promotes positive behavior.
The program itself is significant during this month especially, National Suicide Awareness Month. It’s vital to see how prejudice can change an individual’s life, leading to mental health struggles. When our school promotes positive behavior, students tend to feel more kind to one another.
Student leaders for the program help create protective spaces where students are less likely to feel alienated or oppressed by society. It is recommended to join the club to create a better environment for one another.
The program overall leaves a positive outlook on our school. It is encouraged that all schools nationwide incorporate this club into their district. Bullying needs to be acknowledged more at school.
Not only does the program have a better outlook on our school, but there are many benefits to joining. Joining the program will be an amazing addition to your resume when applying for college. It tells administrators that you are inclusive as a person and interested in making school a better learning environment for everyone.
