TAMPA, FLORIDA-- Vincent Caprigno is only 17 years old, but the Armwood High School junior says he's experienced a lifetime's worth of bullying.
"I've transferred to a lot of different schools and a lot of that was because of bullying," he said.
Caprigno is openly gay. He says that has put a constant target on his back, which often attacks his self-esteem.
"I would just be drained. I wouldn't have the energy to do anything. I'd be depressed," he described. "Unfortunately, it is pretty widespread."
On Saturday, dozens of people marched through the streets of Ybor City against bullying. They chanted, "Stop the bullying, stop the hate," as they walked near Centro Ybor.
It was part of the "Pride on 7th" event, but this was the first time the anti-bullying rally was held.
"It does happen when you are a child, but it also happens when you are an adult. It also happens in the business world and in the corporate communities," said organizer Jorge Alvarado.
Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn was there on Saturday to issue an official proclamation from the city about the need for unity, diversity, and acceptance in the community.
He says those things are critical to growing the area's economy.
"Bullying is inappropriate in any circumstances, regardless of what the rationale is, so it's time that people stood up and said no," Buckhorn said.
Organizers want this year's rally to lead to future anti-bullying events.
"I'm hoping that some people will notice that bullying is not right," Caprigno said.
If you've been bullied there are a number of resources available to find help.
Here are a couple of them:
http://www.fldoe.org/safeschools/bull_fl.asp
http://www.prideon7th.com/