In an effort to combat bullying, DeKalb County Schools, showing no ability in understanding the mindset of bullies, have implemented a guffaw-inducing anti-bullying campaign throughout the county.

Some of the more LMAO items include…

• Establishing a “No Place to Hate” committee (I’m sure if you asked a child what would help prevent bullying in schools the first thing they would say would be “let’s start a committee!”)
• Sign a resolution to reject bullying (what is this? an international trade agreement?!)
• Complete at least three schoolwide anti-bias projects that promote respect and diversity
• Giving schools large banners that exclaim they are “No Place to Hate”

But the absolute best example given by the AJC were the poor students at Murphey Candler Elementary, who had to give their school a hug by literally joining hands and circling the building.

I’m sure there are many that might argue that, at a minimum, this campaign brings the issue of bullying into the spotlight. But as someone that has extensive, first-hand experience in having been bullied in public schools, I would strongly assert that these sorts of initiatives won’t change a thing, except maybe to give parents the false impression that they have some control over their child’s torment.

As a certified dork speaking unofficially for other, younger dorks, I would say thanks but no thanks DeKalb County. Declaring “Hate-free zones” with large banners is like declaring “drug-free zones” with municipal signs. They both just sound like unachievable ad campaigns that serve as nothing more than public band-aids.