SOUTHWICK - Bullying has become a hot topic and a crisis for many young people today.
Western Massachusetts is not immune, and two well-publicized suicides by young people right in the region drew national attention in recent years.
Southwick Tae Kwon Do owner Gary Cormier wants to help students defend themselves against bullies and will present “Done with Bullying,” a free anti-bullying seminar for children ages 8-15 on April 21, 23 and 25.
Cormier said he joined the Martial Artists Against Bullying (MABA) organization to learn more about how to help young people help themselves. The free program is aimed at teaching practical strategies for identifying and dealing with bullying behavior and how to “buddy” rather than “bully” others.
"We teach them exactly what is a bully and different ways to handle it that are non-violent," Cormier said. "We also teach some skills to defend themselves in case the situation does become violent."
Cormier added that just three-percent of bullying incidents become physically violent.
Cormier's children are grown but he sees what many children go through and said some of his own martial arts students have experienced bullying.
“Bullying is still a huge problem, and we believe that no other industry is better equipped to end bullying than martial arts,” says Cormier. “We hope you’ll come out and see for yourself.”
Cormier said MABA does not allow its members to charge for anti-bullying programs, and Southwick Tae Kwon Do is offering its three-session program to the public for free.
"It's a way to give back," Cormier said. "Social media makes it easy to target kids for bullying, and they aren't prepared for it."
To sign up for the program, either call Southwick Tae Kwon Do (413) 461-6118 or email [email protected]. Cormier said space is limited, however, he plans to hold several programs throughout the year.
Southwick Tae Kwon Do is located at 491 College Highway.
