Life changed by simple act of kindness, says bullying prevention advocate

Guest blog post by Red Cross volunteer, Laurie Young.

Travis Price never imagined his life could be transformed by a simple act of kindness. But one moment did change him forever into a champion of bullying prevention.
 
Price recalled the day that altered his life while visiting Calgary recently for Bullying Awareness Week. Now a Canadian Red Cross ambassador, Price told local students that he was in Grade 12 in Nova Scotia when he and a friend, David Shepherd, intervened because a younger boy was being bullied in school for wearing a pink shirt.
 
In solidarity, the boys encouraged other students to wear pink shirts, too. The year was 2007. Now, eight years later, Pink Day is recognized and promoted in dozens of countries around the world.
 
For all of his accomplishments, Price is still a modest man pursing an important mission. He continues to travel, speak and work hard at educating children and adults about bullying prevention in schools, work places, and the community. While bullying itself hasn’t changed much over the years, the way it happens has evolved, he notes.

A man and a woman sitting on a television set

Respect Education volunteer, Tiffany Lee, and Red Cross ambassador, Travis Price

 
Cyber-bullying is more prominent. Social media "doesn't give bullying a face anymore. It is anonymous," Price explains. He stresses it’s important to focus on those who are using it to bully. "Social media is a tool. We can't blame it."
 
Education is the key, he adds. People must learn that if they witness bullying, it’s important to "stand up or intervene,” if it can be done safely. If not, “tell a teacher,” or trusted adult. It takes a community effort to deal with bullying.
 
Price intends to keep educating and advocating for change.  In the mean time, he has advice for youth who are being bullied.
 
“It's ok... It does get better and it will get better.”
 
Learn more about Red Cross violence, abuse, and bullying prevention programs.
 

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