From leis and live music to interactive booths and a pledge against hate, Dartmouth High School’s annual Day of Kindness brought students together Friday, May 2, to promote unity, respect and compassion.

Hosted by the school’s Black Student Union and Allyship Club, the event was a collaborative effort involving several student organizations, including the Gay and Straight Alliance, Christian Fellowship Club, Video Game Club, Fishing Club, Sunshine Club and Student Council, along with support from individual students.

Formerly known as the Day of No Hate, the Day of Kindness is rooted in the mission of fostering a more inclusive and connected school community. The event draws inspiration from the national No Place for Hate program, created by the Anti-Defamation League 25 years ago to help schools address bullying and bias through student-led initiatives and community-building efforts.

This year’s event was supported by the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, the Dartmouth Youth Commission and the Dartmouth Rotary Club — both the District Attorney’s office and the Rotary Club returned as sponsors for a second consecutive year.

The celebration began the day before, when students were introduced to the No Place for Hate Pledge during Advisory. They were later invited to sign the pledge and received “DHS is No Place for Hate” bracelets as a symbol of their commitment.

The luau-themed Day of Kindness kicked off Friday morning with 500 Hawaiian leis distributed by members of the Black Student Union as students arrived on campus. Live music from the school’s Chamber Orchestra, led by Heather Church, welcomed students into the building.

During lunch, students explored 14 themed tables, each designed to reinforce the event’s values through hands-on activities. One popular station featured a Wheel of Fortune-style “Random Act of Kindness” game, where participants either received a task to complete or were surprised with a $5 Dunkin’ gift card, donated by the Rotary Club.

Other booths included an American Sign Language station, where students learned basic phrases and gained insight into hearing impairments, as well as tables offering friendship bracelet making, trivia games like Jeopardy and various team-building exercises. 

No Place for Hate Pledge

1. I will seek to gain an understanding of those who are different from me.
2. I will speak out against prejudice and discrimination.
3. I will promote respect for all people.
4. I believe that one person can make a difference— I will not be a bystander if I see an incident of hate.
5. I recognize that creating a safe school that respects all individuals is the responsibility of everyone.