Moved to Take Action

My 12 year-old nephew, Daniel, is an exemplary student, known among teachers and staff at his elementary school for his compassion and empathy. Through an action he recently took, the school enacted important policies and made his mom the proudest parent in town.

One day during recess, Daniel witnessed a classmate being picked on and harassed by a group of boys. Their target was a quiet and timid student, assaulting him with anti-gay and transphobic insults and taunts.

Concerned about his classmate's welfare and the nature of the group’s verbal attack, Daniel was moved to take action. He went to the principal and told her the specifics of what he’d seen. After speaking with the targeted student, the principal contacted each parent, informing them their child would face consequences for their assault. The school then adopted official policies against any anti-LGBTQ language or behaviors, with offenses resulting in suspension.

For acting on behalf of his classmate and standing against prejudice and bullying, Daniel received praise from his principal and a Good Citizen Award.

My nephew’s concern for others fills me with pride and this incident reminded me of a scripture: “Out of the mouths of babes and infants, you have established strength because of your foes, to still the enemy and the avenger.” Daniel’s courage to speak up has served as a pesticide on the weeds of hostility and intolerance on his campus.

My wish is that when each of us is called on to exhibit courage, whether in service to ourselves, someone else, or for a cause, we’ll be moved to take action by leaning into our hearts and core values, as Daniel did.