(Pictured above: Nico Archambault, a former winner of the So You Think You Can Dance contest, told students at the Step Into Motion event that he too had been bullied as a youth.)

(Cornwall) – Nico Archambault was a victim of bullying at one time in his life.

That’s why the So You Think You Can Dance Canada 2008 winner has partnered up with PREVNet, an organization that stands for Promoting Relationships and Eliminating Violence Network, to encourage students to stop bullying others and to stand-up against bullying once and for all.

“I’ve been bullied,” Archambault told the students at St. Lawrence Intermediate School (SLIS) last Friday. “I know what it is. Always know that bullying is a sign of weakness. It’s a search for power.”

Archambault was visiting SLIS for two reasons – to promote his anti-bullying message and to take part in the Step Into Motion dance festival, a four-day event from May 19-22 that included student performances, professional dance performances, an evening gala and workshops for dance enthusiasts at General Vanier Intermediate School, SLIS and the Aultsville Theatre. The festival, along with the anti-bullying assembly, was coordinated by SLIS teacher Gisele Paquette. 

“Never give up on what you like to please other people,” Archambault said. “Talk to people, family and teachers.

“Have a great sense of humour,” he added. “Be able to laugh at yourself. If you fully embrace who you are, they don’t have much to hurt you.”

Many SLIS students embraced the anti-bullying message and presented skits, dance performances, songs and slideshows for Archambault, students, staff and community members in attendance. The students showcased the different types of bullying – verbal, physical, mental and cyber – and shared messages about how to overcome bullying. Constable Gary Leger from the Cornwall Community Police Service was also there to discourage students from spreading rumours about others.

In one skit, where the character Bob constantly harassed Cindy, the students shared a three-step solution to dealing with bullying. First give the bully a stern look so he or she knows that you won’t put up with the bullying. Secondly, ask him or her to stop. If the bully doesn’t quit the tormenting after that, tell a trusted adult like a teacher.

“I think this is a good experience,” said Alex Merizzi, the grade 9 student who played Bob. “We’re acknowledging that there is bullying out there. It’s a good message.”

“I think it’s important we talk about bullying,” agreed grade 9 student Jenn Berube. “I also think it was cool that Nico was here.”

“I was speechless [when I saw him],” said Jessica Turenne, a grade 9 student.

Paquette said the energy surrounding Archambault’s visit was electric.

“It took a year of planning and everyone involved helped to make this anti-bullying campaign one of importance,” Paquette said. “To have an artist such as Nico helps in the validity of the cause.” 

Paquette also discussed the success of Step Into Motion.

“This year Step Into Motion achieved a goal that was established three years ago and that was to have dance in the schools,” she said. “Nico was the guest of honour however other performers such as Danny Arbour and Team Rhythm Works gave workshops and performances that were of the highest caliber. We discovered many talents at this Festival and we will continue to provide educational dance experiences in our schools.”

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For more information please call:

Gisele Paquette

Coordinator and Founder of the

Step Into Motion Dance Festival

613-933-8410

gisele.paquette@ucdsb.on.ca