Pupils from CEIP Domínguez Alfonso school in La Orotava, Tenerife, have taken their anti-bullying message directly to the heart of regional politics, reading a powerful manifesto against bullying in the Canary Islands Parliament yesterday (Tuesday).
Joined by the President of the Canary Islands Parliament, Astrid Pérez, the students delivered a clear message: bullying is neither a game nor harmless childhood behaviour. “These are cowardly, premeditated actions designed to harass, pursue and destroy the victim,” the manifesto declared.
A Call for Victims to Speak Out
The pupils urged anyone suffering in silence to come forward and make use of the support systems in place. “You have the full backing of your teachers and school leadership,” they assured.
The statement stressed that education must take place in a safe, supportive environment where pupils feel protected and valued. “It is intolerable for any child or teenager to attend school each day gripped by silent fear of insults, threats or any behaviour that attacks their dignity,” the document read.
Lasting Damage
The students highlighted the serious consequences of bullying, whether physical, verbal, emotional or social, which, they said, can cause irreparable harm both in the short and long term. That’s why they are calling for constant vigilance in schools to ensure peaceful coexistence, respect for diversity, and the safeguarding of everyone’s rights.
They also stressed that the unity of the entire school community is crucial. “Each response must be firm and decisive, with schools working hand in hand with families, and paying particular attention to technology and social media to prevent cyberbullying, which greatly amplifies the problem.”
Role of Bystanders and Schools Recognised
The manifesto acknowledged the vital role played by schools in both preventing and managing bullying, and praised students who speak out when they witness such incidents. “The brave actions of those who report bullying are key to tackling this complex issue,” it stated.
Signing the manifesto represents a firm commitment to continue the fight against bullying and to make it visible, with the ultimate aim of stopping harmful behaviour before it can disrupt classroom life.
The students who read the statement, Bruno Martín García, Míriam Escobar Ballesteros and Asier Linares Morales, delivered what campaigners are calling a powerful and timely reminder that bullying has no place in schools.
