BLACK HAWK - Gilpin County High School participated in A Day Without Hate on Thursday, April 24. 

The event, originally founded in 2007 at Standley Lake High School in Westminster, Colorado, was created by an English teacher named Ben, who was concerned about the rise of gun violence in schools. His goal was to combat violence and hatred in schools and to inspire students to help prevent future tragedies.

Over time, A Day Without Hate has grown beyond its original purpose. It now focuses on spreading positivity, unity, and kindness in schools around the world. The message has reached students in 35 states and seven countries.

One of those inspired students is Kendra Williams, a 15-year-old freshman at Gilpin School. Passionate about reducing bullying and violence in her school, Williams took the lead in organizing this year’s event.

Before the event, she said, “I genuinely hope a lot of people participate”—and they did.

Many students wore white shirts to show support as they took part in a meaningful activity: creating a kindness paper chain. 

Students wrote positive affirmations on small slips of paper, linked them together, and added them to a growing chain. Some of the chains stretched over 15 feet and were displayed in the school’s entryway.

Williams, described by her classmates as kind and always willing to help, was the perfect choice to lead this effort. She was supported by fellow students Kiera Ferrante and Mikayla Johnston, who were unavailable for comment but played key roles in organizing the event. 

The event was hosted in partnership with the school’s Student Council and the Interact Club, the high school branch of Rotary International. Together, they planned a series of fun and meaningful activities designed to bring students together to create a stronger, more positive school community.