Tolerating Differences in Others

Did you happen to notice classmates, teachers or friends wearing purple this past Wednesday? Or maybe while logged on to Facebook or Twitter, you wondered why some of your friends’ or followers’ pictures were purple? Well Wednesday, October 20, 2010 was Spirit Day. According to The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) website, “the idea behind Spirit Day was first created by teenager Brittany McMillan earlier this month. Just like "Spirit Week" held in many high schools, Spirit Day can be summed up in three words: "Everyone Rally Together.” There was not a parade or actual rally, but just a simple opportunity to show support by wearing purple. Spirit Day is so significant now because of the recent media coverage of youth being bullied, and in some cases, bullied to death, over their sexual orientation.

We all have the right to express different opinions, however when we disagree with someone on something as serious as sexual orientation, it is important not to act out in a way that will harm others. The media has shared several stories about teenagers who have decided to take their lives as a result of the bullying. Media outlets such as CNN and People Magazine recently showcased the story of Tyler Clementi, an 18 year old Rutgers student who committed suicide after being bullied by his roommate. His roommate decided to live stream an intimate moment of Tyler online for everyone to see and make fun of. This was an extreme violation of privacy and as a result, the embarrassment Tyler felt lead to the decision to take his own life. No difference in opinion should ever result in a person wanting to take their own life.

It is imperative to recognize that bullying can be manifested in many different ways. Most of us may just think of bullying as physically hurting another person, but teasing, taunting, name-calling and sending harassing texts, e-mails or wall posts are also considered forms of bullying. Although Spirit Day prompted me to think about this writing this blog, remember bullying can come from anything, not just sexual orientation. Our ethnic or cultural backgrounds, style of dress or interests are all things people choose to pick on. I urge you whatever differences you have with someone, simply leave them as that. It’s ok to disagree, but causing harm to someone else is not the answer. Think about how important your life is and the lives of the people you care about. Remember the person being bullied is also someone’s sister, daughter or friend and we just don’t know how sensitive our words or actions are to them. Life is too special to be unexpectedly interrupted by bullying.

Most importantly, if you are being bullied or know someone who is, tell someone! If you are not comfortable talking to your family, friends or school counselors there are also anonymous options. LGBT youth in need of immediate help should contact The Trevor Project 's 24/7 Lifeline at 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386) or The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Sites like Facebook also have information on how to prevent online bullying. The resources are there, so if you need help please reach out and remember you are not alone.

-- Martine Rouzan

Brownstone Team