October 1-31

​National Bullying Prevention Month

Month-long awareness observance in October dedicated to preventing bullying and promoting kindness and inclusion among youth.

Yearly Date
All of October
Observed in
United States
Category
Awareness
Founding Entity

PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center

First Observed
2006
Origin

PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center

PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center launched it in 2006 as National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week to empower communities and counter the normalization of bullying. It expanded to a full month in October 2010 due to growing national participation.

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Last updated February 26, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

Let's join together to make October 1 - National Bullying Prevention Month - a time for us all to stand up against bullying. Every year since 2006, this month has been dedicated to creating awareness around the impact of bullying in our society and recognizing the importance of taking action against it. Bullying is an issue that affects people from all walks of life, regardless of gender, race or age. By coming together and spreading kindness and understanding, we can help create a safe and supportive environment for everyone.

​National Bullying Prevention Month Timeline

2006
Inception of the Holiday
PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center initiated the National Bullying Prevention Month in the United States.
2007
First Unity Day
The tradition of Unity Day started, where people are encouraged to wear orange in solidarity against bullying.
2010
Inclusion of Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying prevention was included in the campaign to reflect the fast-growing issue of online bullying.
2012
Expansion to Global Scale
The prevention efforts took on a more global scale, reaching out to communities worldwide where bullying is a prevalent issue.
2016
Biggest Unity Day To Date
Millions participate in Unity Day, making it the biggest anti-bullying expression to date.
2020
Pandemic Challenges
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to raise awareness continued virtually, showcasing resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges.

How to Celebrate ​National Bullying Prevention Month

1

Organize an anti-bullying event

Organizing an event is a great way to bring awareness to the issue of bullying. You can host a rally, put on a play, or organize a walk to spread the message of anti-bullying.

2

Start a conversation about bullying

Having conversations about bullying can help bring attention to it and let people know that it is not acceptable. Talk to friends, family, classmates, and coworkers about the effects of bullying.

3

Reach out to those affected by bullying

Reaching out to those who are being bullied or those who have been bullied in the past can make a huge difference in their lives. Show them that they are valued and that someone cares about them.

4

Volunteer at an anti-bullying organization

Volunteering your time with an organization that focuses on bullying prevention can be a great way to get involved and make a difference. You can help spread awareness, educate others, and provide support.

5

Spread positive messages

Spreading positivity is one of the best ways to combat bullying. Post messages of encouragement on social media or create posters to share positive messages in your school or community.

Why ​National Bullying Prevention Month is Important

A

It raises awareness

National Bullying Prevention Month is an important reminder that bullying is a real issue and should not be taken lightly. It shines a light on the issue and helps raise awareness among both children and adults. This can help open up dialogue about the importance of treating others with respect, as well as teaching kids how to recognize and respond to any kind of bullying behavior.

B

It gives victims a safe space

Bullying Prevention Month offers victims of bullying opportunities to speak out in a safe space without fear of judgment or retribution. It gives these individuals access to resources and support systems so they can get the help they need to become strong, resilient, and empowered future leaders.

C

It encourages people to take action

By shining a spotlight on this issue, National Bullying Prevention Month encourages everyone - parents, teachers, students, lawmakers, business owners, etc. - to take collective action against bullying. Together we can create safer and more inclusive communities where everyone feels accepted and respected regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or background.

Holiday Dates

Year Dates Days
2023 Sunday to Tuesday
2024 Tuesday to Thursday
2025 Wednesday to Friday
2026 Thursday to Saturday
2027 Friday to Sunday