Mother Tammy Angelatos speaks at anti-bullying rally in Belleville Saturday, February 25/2017.(Photo/Quinte News).
It was a small gathering, but a very emotional one.
About 15 people at a rally organized to protest bullying at local elementary schools fought back tears as stories of bullying and its effects on children were shared.
Belleville mother Tammy Angelatos again shared the story of her daughter withdrawing into virtual silence after being repeatedly bullied while she was in grade 5. When her daughter was in high school she attempted suicide.
Teachers and principals were blamed for turning a blind eye toward bullying. At the same time, those at the rally said teachers needed to be re-educated about the consequences of not taking action and that special programs focusing on bullying needed to be widely available.
Rally organizer Robyn Klimek said there was a disconnect between the school system and parents. She said many parents want to volunteer and help at schools but are being shut out.
The group M.I.M.(Mothers in Motion) plans on organizing more anti-bullying events in the future.
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