I PLEDGE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

As a community member committed to the wellbeing of all young people, I pledge to take active steps to prevent, address, and eliminate anti-immigrant bullying in our schools and communities. I recognize that creating safe, inclusive environments requires ongoing commitment and concrete action from all of us – educators, parents, organizations, and community members alike.

I PLEDGE TO:

Listen & Learn

I will prioritize the voices and experiences of those affected by anti-immigrant bullying by:

  • Creating opportunities for immigrant students and families to safely share their experiences and concerns
  • Listening without judgment when someone describes experiencing or witnessing anti-immigrant bullying
  • Validating the feelings and perspectives of those who have been targeted
  • Learning about the unique characteristics of anti-immigrant bullying through firsthand accounts
  • Understanding the barriers that prevent reporting 

Speak Up & Stand Up

I will actively confront anti-immigrant bullying by:

  • Intervening when I witness bullying incidents, using strategies appropriate to my role
  • Challenging harmful stereotypes and misinformation in conversations and social media
  • Advocating for explicit anti-immigrant bullying policies in schools and organizations

Create Safe Spaces

I will help build inclusive environments by:

  • Contributing to school and community settings where diversity is celebrated
  • Supporting education about immigration that emphasizes our shared humanity
  • Modeling respectful language and behavior regarding immigrant communities

Support Targeted Youth

I will prioritize the wellbeing of affected young people by:

  • Ensuring they receive immediate support and continued follow-up
  • Connecting youth and families with appropriate resources while respecting privacy
  • Listening with empathy and without judgment when they share experiences

Empower Bystanders

I will foster a culture of active intervention by:

  • Teaching effective strategies for those who witness anti-immigrant bullying
  • Recognizing and commending those who stand up for their peers
  • Promoting the understanding that silence in the face of injustice is unacceptable

Work for Systemic Change

I will contribute to lasting solutions by:

  • Advocating for comprehensive anti-bullying programs that address anti-immigrant harassment
  • Supporting training for adults who work with youth on identifying and responding to bullying
  • Collaborating with others to ensure accountability and continuous improvement

MY COMMITMENT:

This pledge is my promise to take concrete action. I will not be a silent bystander when young people are targeted because of their identity or perceived immigration status. I commit to actively protecting vulnerable students, speaking up against harassment, and working to create school environments where all students can focus on learning. I make this commitment because the safety and wellbeing of children is not a political issue—it’s a moral obligation we all share. No child should be driven to despair or made to feel unwelcome in their school community. I will galvanize others to grow this commitment, ensuring that every student has an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in our schools.

Name: _______________________________

Role in Community: ____________________
(e.g., parent, educator, student, organization member, community advocate)

Date: ___________________________________

The Belonging Pledge is part of the “Belonging Beyond Borders” campaign to address anti-immigrant bullying. Join us in creating safe, welcoming environments for all young people.

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