June 15, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Julie Hertzog | [email protected]
PACER announces 2022 Unity Awards recipients
Celebrating those working to create a world without bullying
PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 8th Annual Unity Awards. The Unity Awards recognize individuals and groups that empower others to take action, advocate for those who need support, or share acts of kindness that cause a ripple effect in their communities. They will be celebrated on PACER’s website and social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram. The 2022 recipients are:
- Atoms Matter Student Voice Team, a school group at Alexander Science Center School from Los Angeles, Calif.
- EllaGrace Clinger, a high school student from Shalimar, Fla.
- Edwin Cordero, Sr., a community member from McDonough, Ga.
- DaVonia Lashae Henry, a high school student from Kansas City, Kan.
- Hunter Elementary, an entire elementary school from Brownstown, Mich.
- Outspoken Oaks Upstanders, a school group at River Oaks Academy in Westlake Village, Calif.
- Zack Retka, a high school student from Rosemount, Minn.
- Tony Stowe, an educator from Kansas City, Kan.
- Emma T., a first-grade student from Greenville, Ohio*
- Chantelle Vaughn, an educator from Richfield, Minn.
*When a classmate of Emma T. was teased by other students who called her a boy after she got her hair cut short, Emma told her teachers in secret that she was going to get her hair cut like the girl’s. A few days later, Emma walked into the classroom and up to the other girl with her hood up; she then pulled her hood down to reveal her new haircut. The other girl was so happy, and the two embraced. Emma’s teacher commented, “I am so proud of Emma for her incredible act of kindness.”
Julie Hertzog, director of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, commented, “The Unity Awards give us a chance to celebrate the individuals of all ages who are helping to make the world a kinder, more inclusive, and more accepting place. We are honored to have the opportunity to recognize these inspiring students, educators, and community members.”
Cartoon Network celebrates youth making a difference in their communities
Building on its partnership with PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, Cartoon Network is proud to support this year’s Unity Awards, celebrating the youth recipients who are making a positive impact in their community by showing kindness, promoting acceptance, and encouraging inclusion. Through its award-winning Stop Bullying: Speak Up initiative, Cartoon Network is partnering with PACER to celebrate these amazing youth, share their inspiring stories, and provide resources and support for ALL kids who want to redraw their worlds to stop bullying before it starts. Additional partnership elements to be announced later this year.
For more information visit PACER.org/bullying/getinvolved/unity-awards.asp.
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