Bullying is the act of shunning, tormenting, hazing, harassing or abusing another person. It has been known to be the cause of many tragedies, including loss of life, self-confidence and moral understanding. It is an epidemic that needs to be addressed. Bullying can take many forms, in person, online and through interactions with other people. What many people don't know is that bullying is illegal. The people of this community, along with the many other schools in this state and around the country are encouraged by the government and social networking service providers to report incidents of bullying. If you are being bullied, you are not alone, for the law is on your side. If you think you might be a bully, ask yourself, why do I do this? What goals am I trying to meet by putting down another person? Apologize to the people you may have hurt, and give them space. Even if you didn't mean to offend someone, if your victim is hurt, then you must apologize, regardless of your previous intentions. Most people can take a joke, but precautions should always be taken when dealing with people you don't know very well. For some, feelings get hurt easily, and that can lead to trouble.
As a community of scholars and athletes alike, we should hold ourselves and each other accountable about how we treat one another and should stick up for our neighbors is they are being bullied. Nobody should feel obligated to inform on their classmates, but should be vigilant and stick up for each other in a civil and mature way. Bullies have often been found to have personal dilemmas of their own, and should also be helped. As the school year progresses, we should continue to be a supportive community and protect Oxford Academy from bullying.
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