My biggest piece of advice when it comes to bullying is to have an open communication about it.

In this quote, Lizzie Velasquez, a motivational speaker and anti-bullying advocate, shares her insight on how to address the issue of bullying. She stresses the importance of having open communication about bullying, suggesting that talking openly about the problem is a critical first step in overcoming it. By fostering honest conversations, individuals—whether victims, bystanders, or those in positions of authority—can better understand the impact of bullying and work together to prevent and address it.

The origin of this quote stems from Velasquez's personal experiences with bullying. Born with a rare condition that prevents her from gaining weight, she became a target for bullying throughout her childhood and into her adulthood. Rather than being silenced by her experiences, Velasquez has used her platform to raise awareness about the damaging effects of bullying and advocate for more compassionate and inclusive communities.

Velasquez’s emphasis on open communication reflects her belief that conversations about bullying should be normalized and encouraged, particularly in schools, workplaces, and families. When bullying is addressed openly, it allows individuals to share their feelings, offer support, and find solutions. It also helps to break the stigma surrounding bullying, making it easier for victims to seek help and for others to stand up against harmful behavior.

Ultimately, Velasquez’s quote advocates for the importance of dialogue and awareness in combating bullying. By promoting open communication, she encourages a more empathetic and proactive approach to addressing the issue, aiming to create environments where bullying is less likely to thrive, and those affected feel supported and empowered.