Edmonton-based activist and University of Lethbridge alumnus Manwar Khan (BSc ’07), a father of twins, is holding a Candlelight Vigil Saturday, September 26, 2015 in Edmonton at the Alberta Legislature steps as he continues to campaign across the province against bullying and violence.
"We will be gathering in front of the Alberta Legislature steps to show our support for every known and unknown victim of bullying and violence in Alberta," says Khan, who witnessed a violent attack on an Edmonton LRT train in December 2012. It led to the death of one man and the incarceration of another.
Khan invites everyone to gather at the Alberta Legislature steps at 7 p.m. to rally in support of those who have been affected by violence and bullying. He is also asking people who are not able to attend the rally to leave their porch lights on from 7 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 26 to show their support for those affected by violence and bullying.
Khan established a series of annual anti-bullying rallies in 2013, holding events in Edmonton, Calgary, Lethbridge and Airdrie. He has vowed to continue to represent victims of bullying and to try and stem the onset of violence so that it does not persist in society.
“I believe firmly that it is a matter of great importance to teach our children that bullying is simply not acceptable in our society if we are to achieve safety and happiness for all,” he says. “To stop bullying and violence in our community we must stand together and support each other. Each and every one of us can make a difference and show that bullying and violence will not be tolerated in Alberta.”
University of Lethbridge associate professor of management Dr. Robbin Derry, who works out of the University's Edmonton campus, has been supportive of Khan's awareness campaign.
“The University of Lethbridge is proud to stand with Manwar Khan against bullying," she says. "Thanks to Manwar's leadership on this issue, we are raising awareness of effective strategies to resist and defeat bullying. Join us at the vigil to express your active support."
Speakers at the Do Not Be a Bystander rally include teachers, students and community leaders.
