Less Fear After 10 Years

For the past decade, the Center for Preventing Hate has been working with youth and adults throughout Maine and around the world to reduce fear and promote respect.

On April 8th, the Center hosted FEARLESS: A 10th Anniversary Celebration to mark this important milestone. FEARLESS featured an exciting series of interactive exhibits that simulated how Maine youth have reduced fear and promoted respect in their schools. During the evening, the Center also honored several courageous student leaders and faculty members from area high schools who continually create safer and more respectful schools.

The event was well attended. Several Unity Project students volunteered at the event and shared how the project has impacted them personally. One young woman who spoke at the event offered the following perspective:

“The Unity Project has been a sort of refuge for me personally. It has connected me with other students who care about the same things I do, but it has also supported my passion for making everyone feel comfortable. I love being able to walk down the halls at Deering High and to see people smiling at one another and acknowledging each others’ presence.”

Executive Director Stephen Wessler explains why the evening focused on the students. In his words, “I am continually inspired by the courage students display as they stand up against bullying and harassment in their schools. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our organization’s tenth anniversary than to celebrate the student leaders who everyday prevent hate by promoting respect in their schools.”

The Center appreciates the generous support of local businesses and individuals who madeFEARLESS possible. Event sponsors include:

• Bangor Savings Bank
• Bernstien Shur
• Central Maine Healthcare
• Dead River Company
• Insurance Source of Maine
• Key Bank
• L.L. Bean
• MaineHealth
• Nelson & Small
• Saddleback Maine
• University of Maine Farmington