“We will not allow hateful rhetoric and acts of discrimination to follow students into the classroom, which must remain a place for our children to learn and grow in a positive and safe environment,” said Attorney General Schneiderman. “I encourage all schools and educators to consider how they can foster constructive dialogue among students in order to combat hate and create a culture of understanding and respect. As always, my office is ready and willing to serve as a resource for schools that need assistance implementing the guidelines of the Dignity for All Students Act, designed to protect students from bullying and intimidation in schools. Families across New York should know that we are ready to ensure that our children will not be subjected to prejudice or bigotry.”
“There is literally nothing more important than the safety of our children. As adults we are morally bound to ensure both their physical and emotional well-being,” Commissioner Elia said. “Students must feel safe in the classroom to be able to learn. As state and educational leaders, it is our responsibility to foster an open dialogue with students and employees about discrimination, harassment and intimidation and send a strong message that these types of behaviors will not be tolerated in our schools. I am so pleased that our state’s leadership – Governor Cuomo, Attorney General Schneiderman, Speaker Heastie and Majority Leader Flanagan – recognize the importance of supporting our schools as they address this difficult issue with our children. I encourage school leaders to host gatherings for students and employees to help prevent hate-based words and actions and to inform them of what to do if they witness or experience any such hateful acts.”
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