North Dakota State University student leaders will launch a campaign this week to discourage harassment and bullying.
The "Walk the Talk" campaign aims to empower students, faculty and staff to take action against bullying that has been a growing problem nationally.
Student leaders initiated the campaign after they grew concerned about anti-gay chants that were occasionally coming from the student section at NDSU football games, said Ken Story, student government's executive commissioner for public relations.
"It's a campaign to make this university a little bit better for all populations," Story said.
Students will be encouraged to sign pledge cards that include a statement saying they will educate themselves on diversity, confront inappropriate language and stereotypes, work to create a welcoming community and put a stop to bullying and harassment.
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"We're not just going to talk; we're going to walk the talk and speak out against any anti-discriminatory chants on campus," said Kevin Black, NDSU student body president.
Pledge cards will be displayed in the student government office, and students will receive green unity wrist bands that say "I walk the talk."
The week will end with a rally at 5 p.m. Thursday in the Memorial Union Great Ballroom.
Although the campaign ends Friday, organizers expect it will have a lasting impact.
"We hope the momentum continues," Story said.
Support for Measure 1
The North Dakota Student Association has passed a resolution supporting Measure 1, which would establish an oil legacy fund where oil revenue will be saved for future use.
"I feel that by supporting Measure 1, it will allow our state to plan more responsibly for the future of North Dakota" said Mary Christian, NDSA lobbyist, in a statement distributed to students. "However, I feel that there is still some ambiguity that will need to be worked out regarding details of the measure."
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The student group represents students in the 11 North Dakota University System campuses.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Amy Dalrymple at (701) 241-5590 or adalrymple@forumcomm.com
