Bullied At Playground, Yorktown Child Named 'Junior Supervisor'

YORKTOWN, NY — A young man who was on the receiving end of harassment at a Yorktown playground was appointed the town's junior supervisor for the month of July.

Riley Manning-Burns, who has Down syndrome, was playing at the new adaptive playground at Granite Knolls Park that opened June 18 when he was harassed by other children, according to a news release from the town.

The playground is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and is the town's first inclusive playground for children of all abilities, according to a spokesperson.

Supervisor Matt Slater addressed the incident at Tuesdays's Town Board meeting.

"It was really important for us to recognize Riley and to make sure that people understand that this town is a place for everyone," he said.

In response to the bullying incident, the board asked the parks department to hang anti-bullying banners at Granite Knolls and other large parks frequented by children.

The Town Board gave Manning-Burns a municipal pin, a flag, a certificate proclaiming him junior supervisor and a Batman toy.

Councilman Tom Diana said that his granddaughter experienced the same thing at the park.

"The theme of that park is 'A place for everyone,' " he said. "It shouldn't have to be stressed."

Several of the board members spoke of the importance of parents teaching their children how to properly behave toward others.

"It starts back at the house," said Councilman Sergio Esposito, "around the dinner table."