Across Massachusetts on Wednesday, students took part in an anti-bullying effort called "No Name Calling Day" that is part of legislation signed into law by Gov. Deval Patrick two years ago.

While the governor joined students at a middle school in Salem, here in Braintree students posted signs and wore black T-shirts and other clothes to support blacking out bullying.

"The river of black shirts coursing through the hallways was a simple yet powerful statement that hurtful name-calling and bullying are not acceptable at East," principal John Sheehan said in an email. "East Middle School students play an active role in making sure that our school community is a safe place for all."

Gov. Patrick's Statewide Youth Council, covering all 14 counties and consisting of 28 young people ages 14 - 20, helped lead the initiative in various communities, including Weymouth, Quincy and Hyannis. Norfolk County was represented by Weymouth resident Andrea McDonagh and Wellesley Hills resident Kathryne Brauner.

"'No Name Calling Day' and the 'Black Out Bullying' initiative are going to play essential roles in moving towards a culture in the Commonwealth of zero tolerance for bullying," Victor (Manny) Cruz, chair of the Governor's Youth Council, said in a statement. "This is a unique opportunity to spread awareness, and inspire educators, youth and parents to come together to build a safer and empathetic learning environment for everyone."

In Braintree, South Middle School students involved with the Challenge Club and Student Council made announcements about the day during lunch for two weeks, guidance counselor Elaine Pagliarulo said. They also hung posters around the school to encourage their classmates to participate.

"The goal of the South’s Challenge club is to try and build a positive school culture," Pagliarulo said in an email. "The club has also participated in the Stand Up 2011 day, which was held at Northeastern University and we are also doing a chain reaction activity school-wide. This activity is encouraging students to write down positive things that are done by their classmates and to link them around the building."

Over at East, students involved in the East Climate and Culture Club, the Community Service Club and the Student Council were instrumental in organizing the event on Wednesday, Sheehan said.

Gov. Patrick said in a statement, "'No Name Calling Day' is about the idea that each of us has the power to stand up and take ownership of our community. One voice has the power to become many and effect meaningful change."