Bloomington youth are becoming more diverse. This trend offers an opportunity to value diversity and to promote racial, cultural and sexual understanding. Appreciating cultural diversity is important for a non-violent Bloomington. Provide cultural competency training for all people who work with youth and families. Include representatives from the constituency group when developing and implementing programs.
Harassment stems from a lack of understanding or acceptance of differences.
Strong school administration support for and enforcement of the harassment policy is critical. When organizations and individuals know what activities are taking place in the schools and community, they are able to utilize and build upon them. Make youth focused programs available to those students coming from families with low incomes. Create youth programs that are no cost and advertise sliding fee scales and scholarships. Youth from families with financial need are at higher risk for many problems.