April 29, 2012 -
PRLog -- Daniel Mendez was a 16 year old, kind, articulate, honor roll student, boy scout who loved football and hanging out with friends. He held a black belt in Taekwondo and was currently practicing Karate. His love for and knowledge of the game of football led him to be a regular contributor for an online sports organization. For reasons beyond his comprehension, he was bullied relentlessly since middle school. Among other things, he was bullied for his race and for his refusal to fight back. Daniel believed violence was not the answer and that kindness would prevail. After a final altercation at school on May 1, 2009, Daniel could take it no longer and was driven to ending his life on a sunny Friday afternoon, in San Clemente, California. After his death, his friends formed the Cool 2 Be Kind Club at San Clemente High School, an anti-bullying organization that combats bullying. The club promotes anti-bullying education and provides kids on campus with a safe haven to eat lunch and talk to peers that care. The club has received a Mayor’s Commendation as well as the Ambassador of Peace Award from the Orange County Anti-Violence Coalition. This year, as an incoming freshman, Daniel’s sister Victoria has taken a leadership role in the club, helping to spread her brother’s anti-violence message. On Tuesday, May 1, a special memorial will be held in Daniel’s honor. The Cool 2 Be Kind leaders will be presented with a Senator’s Resolution for the hard work they continue to do to combat bullying within the California school district.