Marching for Non-Violence

At first, neighbors of Baltimore Highlands Elementary School might have been startled by the procession of chanting students that filled the streets around the south Baltimore County school the morning of May 15.

Why had student demonstrations - more common on a college campus or in the nation's capital - invaded their quiet community?
But once the young students' message got through, the neighbors might have been reassured.

"Hey, hey, what do you say?" called the hundreds of students, many carrying banners, as they marched their way down Oak Road and Virginia Avenue. "There's no violence here today!"

The march around the school grounds was part of a week-long Violence Prevention Week at the school, which began May 12. Focusing on bringing the school and community together to combat violence, teachers encouraged Baltimore Highlands students to reject violence and conflict - be it in settling a disagreement or fostering the seeds for peace and cooperation in dealing with friends and family.

"By creating a positive sense of community and developing concern for others, students can learn that they can break the chain of violence," said Principal Rosemarie Satriano. "This day and week are good examples of how we can harness the energy of our children for positive and valuable lessons."

Students had plenty of encouragement, too. In addition to the invigorating march, students participated in painting peace signs on one another's faces, playing games, and joining in a pep rally for non-violence, complete with specially created cheers and door prizes.
Alongside the outdoor rally, WERQ (92Q) joined the rally with a live morning broadcast from its mobile studio, offering students a chance to talk with DJ Marc Clarke on his "Big Phat Morning Show." Several parents joined with the celebration to lend their support, and administrators and dignitaries from across the Baltimore County school system, including Board of Education member Michael Kennedy, visited to lend their support.

Marching for Non-Violence

The event ended with a cookout and picnic, with hot dogs and hamburgers supplied by 92Q. "I'm pleased with the level of support and energy," said Baltimore Highlands crisis intervention teacher Nicole Love, who helped to organize the event. "This is an important message that these children, and all of us, need to hear."

A selection of photographs from Baltimore Highland Elementary School's Violence Prevention Week event on May 15 event may be viewed accompanying this article.

See event photos

Story and Photos by Charles Herndon Communications Officer