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.

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.