The Rhinelander High School Diversity Club, in its second year of operation, is focusing on the issue of bullying during October, Anti-Bullying Awareness Month.
The Diversity Club is leading a Unity Day activity Wednesday, Oct. 9. On that day, youth and adults are asked to wear orange apparel, the national anti-bullying awareness month color. During lunch shifts, a banner will be available for youth to sign with their pledge to assist in an effort to reduce the amount of bullying present in their school and community.

In an effort to bring home the idea that acceptance is the antidote to bullying behavior, wristbands with the word “Acceptance” inscribed will be sold throughout the month. For $1 each, students and other residents can support the club’s effort to improve social relations, help raise awareness of bullying and support future Diversity Club efforts.

Other October activities include the viewing of video clips from the documentary Bully during advisory time periods, and hosting a “mix it up at lunch” event Oct. 30, in which students choose to expand their circle of acquaintances.

The Diversity Club was created by students at Rhinelander High School with a mission to develop social awareness, understand common thoughts and feelings associated with diversity, and develop positive coping and anti-bullying strategies. It was founded on the premise that diversity is an asset to all communities. Additional plans for the school year include the attendance by club members at trainings and the co-leading of strength-based anti-bullying educational activities for middle school youth. The RHS Diversity Club welcomes new members and is advised by RHS counselor Susan Hampton and School District of Rhinelander nurse Kerri Schmidt, along with the assistance of UW-Extension Youth Development Agent Lynn Feldman.