Out in Public is hosting a panel on bullying policy in Michigan next Wednesday, November 16th, 5:00-6:00 PM in the Betty Ford Classroom (1110), co-sponsored with APPLE.


Michigan is one of three states without an anti-bullying law and the rash of suicides in recent months has brought considerable attention to this important issue. Bullying is especially relevant for LGBTQ youth, roughly 80% of whom report being verbally harassed at school. The Michigan Senate passed controversial bullying legislation last week, though Democrats have derided it as riddled with loopholes.


Join us as we discuss the historical impediments to legislative action in Michigan, the current state of legislation, federalism considerations and policy strategies for balancing free speech with adequate protection for students. Our panel consists of:

Brian Jacob, PhD (moderator)

Walter H. Annenberg Professor of Education Policy, Ford School of Public Policy
Director, Center for Local State and Urban Policy

John C. Austin, MPA

President, Michigan State Board of Education (which authored a model bullying policy for school districts)
Non-Resident Fellow, Brookings Institution

Brendan Egan

MPP Candidate, 2012
Former Teach For America Corps Member

Sandi Smith

Ann Arbor City Councilwoman
Policy Director, Jim Toy Community Center

We hope to create an open dialogue on this issue, regardless of political orientation. Please bring your questions and stay for a casual reception and light refreshments to follow in the Great Hall. "Bullying: the Michigan Case" is free and open to the public, so please circulate information to those who may be interested. I hope many of you are able to attend and thank you!