FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 28, 2009
Contact: Phil Volk
734-340-4868
philvolk2004@yahoo.com
Citizens Lobby Against Bullying in Michigan Schools
May 13 Lobby Day in Lansing
A coalition of Michigan organizations is banding together to lobby for the passage of anti-bullying legislation. They plan to hold an All American Lobby Day on May 13 to support Senate Bill 0159.
“It is time to put an end to this violence in our schools so all our children can be safe,” said Phil Volk, one of the lead organizers. Volk heads two caucuses of the Michigan Democratic Party and serves on its State Central Committee.
SB 0159, sponsored by Senator Glenn Anderson of Wayne County, will protect all Michigan youth from bullying and make our schools safe. The bill specifies that all minorities, including religious and racial minorities and youth with disabilities, are protected.
Sponsoring and endorsing organizations, including Project Light, National HRC, White House LGBT Task Force, Michigan Equality, U of M College Democrats, Michigan Democratic Youth Caucus, American Family Committee, Order of St. John the Beloved (Catholic Order) and many more, ask citizens to make appointments with their legislators that day, urging them to vote for the bill and sponsor a version of it in the House.
“My own son was bullied in school, so my heart really aches for these kids who are getting hurt,” Volk said. “The purpose of going to school is to get an education, but kids can’t learn if they fear for their safety.”
The lobby day will include a press conference at noon in the Capitol (room to be announced).
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Paid for by the Michigan Democratic LGBT and Allies Caucus,
U of M College Democrats, and the Michigan Democratic Youth Caucus
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee
