Continuing to capitalize on October nationally as Bully Prevention Month, the Murray Human Rights Commission outlined the next steps in its anti-bullying campaign Monday.

The Bully Free Community Education Campaign, brain child of the Murray Human Rights Commission, officially kicked off in January and since then, campaigners have worked to raise the issue of bullying in the city of Murray, in schools, businesses and residential settings.

At its monthly meeting, Jody Cofer Randall, the commission’s chair, said in support of the group’s efforts, Kenny Imes, Kentucky’s 5th-district state representative, has donated a spot on the electronic billboard at the intersection of KY 80 and U.S. Highway 641, recognizing this month and its significance.

Cofer Randall said the HRC has been working this month to promote its message in businesses and in faith-based groups. He said he has been trying to promote businesses purchasing a book by Murray resident Allan Beane, president of the Bully Free Systems LLC.

At the close of the meeting discussion turned to the HRC’s next campaign after bullying, with poverty being the focus.

Cofer Randall said creating an awareness campaign for poverty would not signal an end to their discussion and activities revolved around bullying. He suggested beginning to think about getting several local organizations and agencies on board and forming a sub-committee to look into the poverty issue in the following weeks.

Staff Report