bullying bylaw

Bullying

On March 12, 2003 City Council approved changes to the City’s Public Places Bylaw, making bullying an offence. Bullying is defined as “the repeated intimidation of others by the real or threatened infliction of physical, verbal, written, electronically transmitted, or emotional abuse.” Any person who repeatedly bullies a minor (under the age of 18) in a public place could be subject to a $250 fine.

For your information, school Principals are not responsible for enforcing the Bylaw. However, at the discretion of the school Principal, he/she may consult with Edmonton City Police. Under the Bylaw, the investigation of a bullying incident falls within the jurisdiction of the Edmonton Police Service. If you have any questions about the Bylaw, you may call the Media Relations Unit at the Edmonton Police Service; (421-3551). The amendment to the Bylaw took effect on May 1, 2003.

Often our work with the police comes around to a bullying situation which the police refer to as ‘a student's rights being taken away’. As has been explained to me, often in bullying situations, there is an imbalance of power that may be related to physical stature, peer position or personality traits. While we may never be able to totally eliminate the bullying from our lives or our children’s lives, we can empower each of us to know when it is the correct time to stand up for our rights.

Ask your child what they would do if their rights were taken away by a bully. Has a situation ever come up with a friend and how did they handle it? Just like with the principals and the police, more communication is the key to solving problems.

Mr. Krzak

May 12, 2006. Province reaches out to youth struggling with bullying

A new campaign and helpline are making it easier for youth to stand up and stop bullying.
Edmonton... The Government of Alberta launched a new 24-hour helpline for youth as part of a bullying awareness campaign. Young people who are struggling with bullying and are in need of help can call 1-888-456-2323 for support and referral.

The helpline is operated by trained counsellors 24-hours a day, seven days a week, and was created for children and youth who feel they have nowhere else to turn. Counsellors will be able to assist with information on bullying prevention and intervention, and referrals to local counseling and bullying prevention services. Helpline staff are trained to identify potentially harmful situations in need of emergency services.

“Unfortunately, for many youth, bullying has become an everyday occurrence,” said Children’s Services Minister Heather Forsyth. “It breaks my heart to know that many of them are suffering in silence and not turning to anyone for help. This helpline will help those youth who feel their situation is hopeless.

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