September 26th, 2011 
deackychu Hello everyone.
I’m going to take a moment to reflect on something that has happened in my community recently which has struck a very deep chord with me. Last week, on September 18th, a young 14-year-old boy committed suicide because he was bullied at school for being gay. His name was Jamey Rodemeyer. This came several months after he posted a video to the “It Gets Better” project to help other adolescent teens cope with their emotions by telling them that as time goes by, things will get better.
While I didn’t know Jamey personally, nor had I ever spoken to him, I was in a similar situation when I was in high school many moons ago which is why this hit me so hard. He was vocal online with his problems and often wondered just what it would take for people to realize how much he was bullied. Sadly, he decided to take his life so that the world over would be aware of what he had endured for so long. It was a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Growing up, I too had contemplated suicide because I was confused about my sexuality. I endured torments from my peers after word had gotten out that I ‘may or may not’ like guys.
He was an ardent follower of Lady Gaga, taking to heart many lyrics from her Born this Way album. Shortly before his untimely passing, he tweeted “Mother Monster” with a heartfelt thanks for what she has done for him, before saying farewell. Just recently, Lady Gaga paid tribute to him in one of her performances, which was something that brought tears to my eyes. It was an selfless act on her part, which has turned many peoples’ opinions towards her around. She told fans in her performance that “bullying is for losers”. I wholeheartedly agree. However, just as much as I agree with this, I’m just as guilty for doing it in the past. I think we’ve all had our fair share of being bullied or being the bully. This fact is undeniable.
So, I’d like for people to take a moment to reach out to friends, your brothers, your sisters, your cousins… anyone who you think may be the victim of bullying, not just because they may be questioning their sexuality, but for any reason: whether they’re fat, nerdy, geeky, questioning, sad, depressed, etc. This shouldn’t continue. People shouldn’t have to suffer.
Regardless of it all, every little bit helps. Whether it’s just reassuring someone by letting them know you are there for them or just having a candid talk out of the blue. Together we can do our part in putting and end to all of this. Educate and reciprocate.
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