Unity Day, sponsored by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, has been a nationally recognized event since 2011.  The purpose of this important day is to make strides towards ending bullying.  

Created to support families and children with disabilities, the PACER Center declared the official motto of Unity Day to be “Together against bullying.   UNITED for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.”  

This works alongside PACER’s mission to be “champions for children with disabilities” to emphasize the need for removing bullying from all school or school-related environments. 

On Oct. 23, Schreiber participated in Unity Day.  Students, faculty and administration were encouraged to wear orange to stand as one powerful force against the detrimental effects of all forms of bullying. 

“Orange provides a powerful, visually compelling expression of solidarity. Hundreds of individuals at a school wearing orange . . .  the vibrant statement becomes a conversation starter, sending the supportive, universal message that bullying is never acceptable behavior,” said Executive Director of the PACER Center Ms. Paula Goldberg.

Throughout the day, the school held different activities and events.  From distributing wristbands that said “Scatter Kindness” to selling food in order to raise money for bullying prevention programs, the day was a complete success.  

“It’s important to be able to have an event like this. Whether we choose to see it or not, people are still mean to others.  While some may not participate, I firmly believe this is a very important way to raise awareness about the issue,” said sophomore Susana Noto.  

The main event of Unity Day was a walk around the track after school.   Schreiber students, staff, and administrators participated in this walk in order to send the message that no one is alone.  Participants walked to make a statement that every student should feel safe from bullying.  Students at Schreiber are proud to be able to get involved for this cause and feel as though they are truly making a difference. 

Some students believe that Schreiber should go beyond merely observing Unity Day.  They think there should be multiple occasions throughout the year to keep up the momentum that has been started with this event.

“I think it is a good first step.  We should continue to work to create a more positive atmosphere through clubs, such as SADD and Letter Club,” said sophomore Emma Stylianos.  “No one should ever feel like they are alone, and I think that this event is the perfect way to present a united front and an inclusive environment.”

Unity Day was first established as a way to spread kindness and create an environment where everyone can feel included.  Now, seven years after it first started, it has grown into an strong movement that is working to educate people about bullying and ending hate.  Working to make our school a safe environment will create a better atmosphere for all students. 

“Unity day is an expression of our town’s values and it displays our tolerance.  I am proud and grateful to be part of such a loving community,” said sophomore Eloise Griffin.