As part of the project “Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Violent Behavior for Schoolchildren,” realized in cooperation with the In Foundation – foundation for the improvement of social inclusion of children and youth in BiH, the internet campaign on violence prevention continues.
Below, you can read an article written by an eighth-grade student and member of the peer support group at “Avdo Smajlović” Elementary School.
I am Dženeta, I am 14 years old, and I am in the eighth grade at Avdo Smajlović Elementary School. When it comes to peer violence, I want to tell you something: ”SAY NO TO VIOLENCE!”
Elementary school is the most beautiful and interesting period of life, which we should spend socializing, playing, helping each other, and having fun. However, lately, there have been more and more fights, mockery, and mutual insults. Today, we are all exposed to violence in schools, whether as perpetrators, victims, or witnesses. Peer violence is increasingly present in schools, on the streets, in parks, and all other places where we spend time. Sometimes it seems like it’s just a part of our reality and that it’s difficult to fight against it. But that isn’t true. We can change all of that, if only we realize that we are all duty-bound to react and protect the person experiencing the violence, instead of turning our heads or—even worse—laughing at it. My friends and I have decided to fight. The “Wings of Hope” Foundation implemented a campaign in four Sarajevo schools, including mine. For a year, we worked hard and strove to be recognized in our schools as peer support. We went through many educational workshops where we had the opportunity to learn in detail about the problem of violence and what we can do about it. In our school, we managed to raise awareness about violence, but it isn’t like that everywhere. Many children still suffer—shy, sensitive, and withdrawn children, children who won’t fight back. Because of this, we must all be involved in solving this problem together. First of all, parents, who must talk openly with their children. Then, teachers, the school psychologist, and peers, but most importantly, we must work on ensuring that every child gathers the courage to personally reach out to someone if they have a problem. That’s why I think as many workshops like this as possible should be organized to further raise awareness about peer violence and perhaps give someone that courage. If someone is a victim or a witness to violence, they should speak up.
STOP THE SILENCE THAT HURTS!
DŽENETA SARAJKIĆ