Birmingham Hadassah joins effort for anti-bullying license plate

The Birmingham Hadassah Social Action Committee is partnering with Baylee Smith to promote an anti-bullying license plate for Alabama drivers.

Smith graduated from Hillcrest High School in Tuscaloosa county last spring, and has been involved in anti-bullying efforts through her participation in the Miss High School America pageant, which has anti-bullying as a national platform. She volunteers with elementary-age students, teaching them what to do when confronted by a bully.

In May, she received approval for the plate from the Legislative Oversight Committee. For the plate to be issued, there must be 1,000 pre-order commitments in a one-year window. As of mid-August, 22 had been reserved.

The Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles website started accepting pre-orders on June 1. Hadassah is committing to help her get 500 orders by December.

Proceeds from this specialty license plate will benefit Eagles’ Wings, Inc., an organization in Tuscaloosa County providing day habilitation services to adults with developmental disabilities-many have experienced bullying throughout their lives.

According to Hadassah co-chair Amy Sedlis, “This plate could generate a conversation about bullying that has never happened before. As many know, cars often are a great time to talk to kids and other passengers about many things and license plates offer that non-threatening opportunity. What a great opportunity to help raise awareness.”

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