Bullying Awareness Day Proclamation Text

WHEREAS, bullying, the abusive treatment, use of force or coercion to affect others, fosters a climate of fear and disrespect that seriously impairs the physical and psychological health of its victims creating conditions that negatively affect learning, thereby undermining the ability of youth to achieve their full potential; and,

WHEREAS, bullying comes in various forms and the statistics show that the United States has a growing problem among teens with most incidents taking place inside the school while a smaller number of them occur outside on the school grounds, on the school bus or on the way to and from school; and,

WHEREAS, the reasons for bullying include but are not limited to race, gender, physical or mental disability, religious affiliation and sexual orientation with a growing number of those targeted opting to commit suicide rather than continue to suffer or seek outside assistance; and,

WHEREAS, the City of Fort Worth and the Fort Worth Independent School District encourage all citizens to do their part in ensuring that all children have a safe, caring and respectful place to feel safe, learn and socialize; and,

WHEREAS, by empowering our youth to stand up and acknowledge the affects that bullying has on those being targeted, we can make a difference and improve the world for future generations, NOW THEREFORE:

We, the Fort Worth City Council, do hereby proclaim October 12, 2011, as

BULLYING AWARENESS DAY

in the City of Fort Worth.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and caused the Official Seal of the City of Fort Worth, Texas to be affixed this 4th day of October, A.D., 2011.

Councilman Burns honored with 2011 "Believing in Youth" award

Posted May 13, 2011

Councilman Burns is the 2011 Mike Moncrief "Believing in Youth" Award recipient, an annual recognition given by Fort Worth-based Santa Fe Youth Services for his work on behalf of the youth of Tarrant County. 

“Joel demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to youth and reinforces the belief of Santa Fe Youth Services that diversified community efforts, formal and informal, have tremendous power in protecting youth from unhealthy choices like substance use, school problems, bullying, and other self-destructive behaviors,” said Santa Fe Youth Services Executive Director Virginia Hoft.

In October 2010, at a Fort Worth City Council meeting, Councilman Burns revealed for the first time his own struggles with being bullied as a teenager. Since that time, he has been a strong voice in lobbying for state legislation that will ensure that children in Tarrant County have access to a safe and secure learning environment and that adults, parents, administrators and teachers have the tools they need to help end bullying.  In addition, he has brought special focus to homeless youth issues through his work on City Council. Councilman Burns has also maintained a long commitment of working closely in partnership with FWISD and the Mobile Summer Recreation Program based out of Fort Worth's Near Southside.    

Santa Fe Youth Services is a non-profit agency providing substance abuse prevention, intervention and counseling services to youth and families most in need since 1996. The “Mike Moncrief Believing in Youth Award” is presented annually to recognize individuals for their extraordinary commitment to the youth of Tarrant County. Past “Believing in Youth” award recipients include Jose Guzman, Rayfield Wright, Everson Walls, Daryl Johnston, Carey Cockrell, Gloria Austin and Coach Robert Hughes.  

Watch coverage of the awards ceremony.

Press statement regarding retirement of Mike Moncrief

Posted Feb. 10, 2011

In his service as State Representative, County Judge, State Senator and Mayor, Mike Moncrief has been a example of public service to the citizens of Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and Texas my entire life. I have enjoyed serving with a mayor who has such a strong and evident love for Fort Worth and commitment to Fort Worth’s future generations. I hope that after he and his co-captain, Rosie, have the ability to spend some much-deserved time together, that they will continue to be example of service and leadership in our City for decades to come.