My father is not what you might call the most enlightened when it comes to LGBT issues. In fact, he still uses language like referring to my being gay as “choosing the lifestyle,” but I have come to appreciate that even if we have very different viewpoints, we both share a profound care for youth and the pain caused to them by others. Even a guy like my Dad would be torn up thinking about how the words and actions of others was responsible for driving this young man to the point of suicide.
I think you can not really be supportive of LGBT issues at all, and still be outraged that taunting and abuse like this happens:
“They said stuff like ‘you’re like a piece of crap’ and ‘you don’t deserve to live.’ Different things like that. Talked about how he was gay or whatever,” said Swango.
Imagine being told that you don’t deserve to live. Imagine!
The fallacious argument, that a person chooses to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered crumbles when you look at things like this. Why would any young person choose to be so harassed are treated so badly?
My father, who isn’t so thrilled I’m gay would never have allowed others to treat me this way. He loves me and that love is more powerful than any set of beliefs he holds or doesn’t hold. Our youth need you, me, my father, and everyone to speak out and stop this type of abuse happening to kids who feel different. They need us. They need you!
The solution isn’t complicated, but also not easy. Some parts f it could or should be. We must pass legislation that protects all youth from bullying and abuse at school, and we must demand that teachers and other Education professionals maintain a safe environment for learning. We must also speak out against all homophobia, hatred and whatever else drives kids and adults to harm our youth in this way. Speaking out isn’t always easy, but it is essential. Lastly, we must each become willing to stand up and support our young people, and act in their best interest where ever and whenever it is needed.
The attached link contains a video as well as more information.
via School Bullying Suicide: Bullied Greensburg student takes his own life – fox59.com.