On May 28, 2025, ASEZ STAR hosted the U.N.I.T.Y. Forum at the Michael E. Busch Annapolis Library in Annapolis, MD. Students, families, educators, and community leaders gathered to address bullying and how to prevent it. The event focused on understanding and supporting both those who are bullied and those who bully others. U.N.I.T.Y. stands for Us Now, Imagine the Youth, a call for the whole community to build a safe, caring environment for young people.
A Community Coming Together in Annapolis
A student-led panel explored early signs of bullying, mental health support, and prevention strategies. Panelists included Senator William Smith, Senator Shaneka Henson, Senator Dalya Attar, and other community leaders.
The forum included a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing, where local officials pledged to work together on youth safety and well-being programs. Students participated in workshops that taught how to identify bullying, safely intervene, and seek adult help. The event also featured student testimonials and performances, sharing personal stories about bullying and the need for support.
Elise Morrow, an ASEZ STAR volunteer, said, “Through the anti-bullying forum, I realized how damaging bullying can be and how important it is to stop it. I want to support the youth in my community by creating a safe space for every voice that feels unheard.”
Senator Dalya Attar said, “Today we come together, families, educators, community leaders—not as separate groups, but as one community with one purpose.”
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One Response
Great Event! A topic that needs to be brought forth more to the public. I was happy to see how passionate the panelists and guest speakers were on this topic.