Healing Circle Brings Comfort After Baguio Campus Bullying Incident
Bulllying doesn’t just touch the surface with physical pain, it strikes at the heart of our sense of security and identity. This was painfully clear following a recent incident at a Baguio campus where a queer student was targeted. In response, local advocates didn’t simply voice their disapproval; they took action by organizing a healing gathering. Baguio Pride, alongside mental health allies, created this healing circle to provide a space for students to work through the trauma, regain their strength, and remember they are not alone in this journey.
The issue of bullying against LGBT+ students in educational settings is part of a broader narrative, not just an isolated event. A complete study by Human Rights Watch has consistently shown that Filipino LGBT+ youth face frequent verbal abuse, physical harm, and institutional neglect in schools, often without adequate intervention from those in authority. To explore deeper into these findings, you can explore the detailed report from Human Rights Watch. When viewed alongside the events in Baguio, it becomes evident that this is not a singular occurrence but a recurring issue that demands attention and action filled with courage and empathy.
Transforming Harm into Healing: The Healing Circle Experience
The healing circle took place in a serene spot close to Session Road, welcoming students, campus leaders, guidance counselors, and LGBT+ advocates. Unlike formal seminars, it embraced a gentle approach: grounding exercises, sharing circles, and creative outlets like art and journaling. As Doc Raf, I find this approach particularly effective, being trauma-informed, community-focused, and deeply rooted in the Filipino spirit of bayanihan.
During the session, facilitators reassured participants that feeling angry, scared, ashamed, or sad were natural responses to violence and not indications of weakness. They emphasized the importance of consent and personal boundaries, ensuring that no one felt obligated to share and everyone had the freedom to step out for a breather if needed. The core message resonated: “You are safe here. Your story is important. You deserve to be heard.”
A poignant moment unfolded when students penned affirmations for themselves and their bullied peer, who is now receiving off-campus support. These messages, such as “You are not the problem,” “Your queerness is beautiful,” and “You belong in this school,” were later collected and sent as a thoughtful care package. While seemingly simple, these affirmations offered emotional grounding against experiences meant to isolate and shame.
The Importance of Healing Spaces for Queer Students
Self-care, particularly after trauma, is essential for survival, not a luxury. Healing circles like this enable our community to transition from shock and helplessness to connection and empowerment. They highlight that mental health support is a collective, structural responsibility, not just an individual one. Schools need to implement clear anti-bullying policies, maintain responsive guidance offices, and ensure educators are affirming and knowledgeable about SOGIESC in both theory and practice.
To the queer students reading this: your pain is acknowledged, and so is your resilience. Reach out to trusted friends, organizations, or mental health professionals if the burden becomes too heavy. For allies and educators: listen attentively, offer support, and take a stand when witnessing harm. Each time we create a healing space, whether through formal setups like Baguio Pride’s initiative or a simple yet meaningful chat with a friend, we challenge the culture that allows bullying to persist.
Remember: self-care is your right, not a selfish act. Within this community, you are never alone in your healing journey.
