Bullying is like technology. Technology is constantly growing and establishing newer methods for the world to communicate or turn mundane routines into technological experiences. Bullying, like technology, has grown with many different methods and a wider selection of victims. Bullying has transformed by becoming a topic of controversy based on those who deserved to bullied and those who deserve redemption.
It seems as if America has become a third world country when it comes to bullying. The problem with resolving bullying in America is the idea that old solutions should work for new problems. Antiquated ways of targeting this horrendous act have begun to cause deadly consequences especially with the LGBT community. How can anyone who believes that all Americans should have the right to life, liberty, and happiness condone bullying? Does bullying not rob a person of their happiness?
When bullying transformed from playground politics to a cyber obsession, it took a while for America to establish laws to protect people from cyber bullying. The growing trend of cyber bullying was eventually met with laws promising to protect those who were victimized. When bullying began to openly target gays and lesbians, it seemed that the law worked to protect those who bullied. Is it incorrect to assume that ignoring bullying against gays is the same as allowing it to happen? In the land of the free and home of the brave, why are gays and lesbians still held captive by discrimination against their lifestyles? What gives law officials the right to ignore our constitutional rights and condone open discrimination to homosexual Americans?
Many may argue that choosing to live a gay lifestyle comes with certain stipulations that may subject a person to the harsh realities of society. Isn’t it ironic that the American dream will only allow heterosexuals to live in peace? It’s absurd to believe that if one “chooses” to be gay, then the choice to be ridiculed and bullied is understood.
Bullying against homosexuals has led to an increased suicide rate. According to Youth Pride, 36.5% of LGBT youth has attempted suicide. Does it seem logical to assume that these children would rather die than to face a lifetime of ridicule allowed by the law? Is the harsh reality not enough for our government to take a stand? It seems that the American government would rather allow LGBT bullying to rampantly destroy lives instead of protecting all Americans.
Some Americans understand that any form of allowable discrimination threatens the entire foundation of freedom. If the law allows homosexuals to be bullied, what will stop the spread of bullying to other groups? What will prevent the spread of hatred towards those that we choose not to accept? The law should not only protect those who are socially and religiously accepted.
When the constitution was written, maybe it meant to say “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal (unless you’re gay or bisexual)….” If this were true, it would make sense for the law to protect only heterosexual Americans. The absurdity in the modified clause should prove the illogical practice of allowing gays and lesbians to be bullied.
