Thirteen million students get bullied each year according to mbfpreventationeducation.org. Bullying is a terrible part of society, but students at WHS take a stand to make things better. Students helped oppose bullying and harassment by participating in Inclusion Week, from Dec. 2–6. It is dedicated to appreciating what makes people unique and accepting others. To participate, an array of clubs hosted fun and informational activities all week.
On Monday, Dec. 2, UNIFIED Sports led the charge by hosting a blanket-making event for the My Stuff Bags Foundation. This effort brought together dozens of students who worked collaboratively to create blankets for children in need, reinforcing the club’s message of inclusion and care for others.
“We had a lot of fun,” said UNIFIED Sports club president Theron Labib ‘25. “Our club is based on the importance of inclusion, so we are always happy to find fun ways to spread that message.”
The Jewish Student Union continued the week’s theme on Tuesday, Dec. 3, hosting interactive games like cornhole during lunch near the amphitheater. Through these activities, JSU members highlighted their mission to spread awareness and celebrated Jewish culture to all in an accessible and engaging way.
“We try to promote Jewish unity and [create] a community, but we also have a lot of people in the club who aren’t Jewish,” said JSU member Corwin St George ‘26. “Our goal is to spread awareness of the Jewish culture.”
In the spirit of unity, students also contributed to the WHS inclusion mural, an interactive art piece displayed on campus. The mural was a petition to increase inclusivity by having each student sign their name in support. The mural served as a visual reminder of the importance of community and the collective commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment.
“This week and every week, let’s commit to standing up against bullying and harassment in all forms,” said Assistant Principal of Activities Mae Tietjen.
To close out the week, the Black Student Union hosted a trivia for candy prizes while learning about the rich history and contributions of the Black community.
“[Our goal is to] spread awareness and stress the importance of diversity on campus, and help to make it a safe space for people,” said BSU member Jamie Quenqua ‘25.
Inclusion Week at WHS was more than just a series of events — it was a powerful statement of acceptance, understanding and the collective responsibility to stand up against bullying and harassment by spreading knowledge and providing a way for people to become involved with others. Students demonstrated how embracing what makes us different can strengthen the bonds of community and create a supportive environment for all.
“We not only support one another, but also contribute to making our school a better, more respectful place for everyone,” said Tietjen.
