Judge James Fason and Rev. Michael McDowell present anti-bullying resolution to Duplin County Schools board

Reverend Dr. Michael McDowell and Judge James Fason presented an anti-bullying resolution to the Duplin County Schools board during its Sept. 3 business session, urging the board to adopt a public stance against bullying in school and on social media.

The presenters said the resolution was drafted in partnership with the Kingsville Eastern Missionary Baptist Association, which the presenters said serves Duplin County and four surrounding counties and 46 constituent churches. Michael McDowell told the board, “We stand tonight to give our resolution on anti bullying to this board and, those in attendance as it was drafted by the honorable judge, James Fason the third in partnership with our association.”

James Fason, who identified himself as a district court judge and a pastor at Burge Bridal Missionary Baptist Church, described the aftermath he has observed from bullying. “School is a place where students should be able to look forward to…not have the fear of it as a war zone,” Fason said, urging the board to ensure students have a safe place to turn and adults who will listen.

The presenters emphasized that bullying protections should cover intimidation based on social circumstance, economics, race, religion and gender identity and that students should be protected in person and online. They thanked the board for the opportunity to present the resolution; the transcript records the presentation but does not record a formal board vote on adopting the resolution at that time.

The presentation concluded with the presenters’ request that the board stand with the association in a unified approach to academic excellence and student safety. The board proceeded with its agenda following the presentation.