Rob O'Leary for Congress

Sen. O’Leary, Rep. Patrick Present Mashpee KKids with copy of “No Name Calling Day” law

State Representative Matthew Patrick and State Senator Robert O’Leary will be at the Mashpee Middle School on Friday to present the Mashpee KKids with a framed copy of legislation they filed in 2007.

The 4th Wednesday in January is now the “No name calling day” because of the hard work and dedication of the KKids in Mashpee.  Part of the Kiwanis group, the KKids wanted to make a difference by helping kids become aware of the harm bullying can do. 

This bill was filed in 2009 by Representative Matthew Patrick and the Mashpee kkid.  The bill designates the 4th Wednesday in January as in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as “No Name Calling Day”.  This day will be set aside annually to educate the public as to the devastating effects of verbal bullying.  Encouraging positive dialogue and pledging not to name call on this designated day reaffirms the commitment of the citizens of the Commonwealth to basic human rights and dignity while respecting differences and promoting tolerance.

Representative Matthew Patrick stated “I was impressed when the Mashpee KKids asked me to file this bill and I was impressed by them when they came up to testify for the bill at the hearings.  They are very concerned about their fellow students and I was moved by their sincerity to make a statement against bullying.” Patrick continued, “What could be better than memorializing this day when we decide to make a stand against bullying and every year the students can stop for a moment and be reminded to treat others with dignity and respect?”

The KKids testified at several hearings, wrote support letters and participated in the bill signing with Governor Patrick.

The Governor sent a signed copy of chapter 92, section 18 of the Bullying law to Representative Patrick who then had it framed for the KKids.  The presentation will be at 8:30 on Friday June 18th at the Mashpee Middle School.