Massapequa Stands up to Bullying

It's a chance to fight back against bullying and show support for those who've been bullied.

Residents, non-profit groups, local officials and entertainers will join forces Sunday for an anti-bullying event at Marjorie Post Park from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m..

The event, called "Bullying Stops Here," is sponsored by  Massapequa Stands up to Bullying, an organization co-founded by Kim Garcia, who has witnessed how painful bullying was to a family member.

"My nephew went through some very serious bullying, to the point where police were involved"  she said. Garcia's nephew Kyle Benson was picked on for being shorter than other kids and for having Tourette Syndrome."I saw the light draining from his eyes," Garcia said.

But Kyle's family got him help. They switched him to a private school and worked to build his confidence. 

"Music is an outlet for him, Garcia said, adding that Kyle is scheduled to perform two songs at Sunday's  event.

Also speaking will be Chelsea White, a comedienne and community advocate, who's appeared on MTV and VH1; psychologist, Dr. Steven Baron; Jamie Isaacs, founder of an anti-bullyng foundation and Dr. Thomas Fasano of the Massapequa school district.

There will be a demonstration on diffusing negative situations and  building self esteem from the American  Black Belt Academy.

There will also be  breakout groups and discussions. And you can find food, arts and crafts, a DJ  and other entertainment, including a performance by a Motley Crue tribute band as well,

It's  the type of event Garcia has wanted to put on since the group, which grew out of a conversation on the Massapequa Mom's Facebook group seven months ago.

Garcia says the group has two goals. "First, o stand up, speak out and empower those who've been bullied, while diminishing the power of bullies," she said. "Also to show that every child matters."