Bullying has no place in society, and it takes courage to stand up to it. Three teenagers at Lincoln Middle School in Wisconsin showed this courage by intervening when bullies targeted their friend Desiree Andrews, a cheerleader with Down syndrome.
Desiree, known for using dance and music to express herself, was being heckled during a basketball game timeout. Her friends Scooter Terrien, Chase Vasquez, and Miles Rodriguez recognized what was happening and decided to act. They left the bench and confronted the bullies with the whole school watching, sending a strong message that bullying is unacceptable.
Their intervention made a lasting impact on Desiree and her family. Desiree’s father expressed heartfelt gratitude, moved to tears, highlighting that the boys’ actions showed kindness and bravery in a moment when it was most needed.
This story is a powerful reminder that standing up against bullying, no matter how small the act, can change lives and foster inclusivity.
