What utter rot and bullshit. This video is not glorifying violence, it is a posting of resistance to oppression and denigration of individuals. The bully represents an ongoing epidemic of mob mentality, group tormenting and the suppressing of individuals who may not exactly conform (intentionally or unintentionally) to the status quo.
This issue is all too present in schools. Bullying is a very real and present problem. It has resulted with suicide and mass murder in extreme cases as well as counselling that may continue throughout a child’s adult life. Kids can be cruel, an all too true mantra and in this instance the cruelty was reprimanded by the subject. People need to realise that this is a good thing.
Many brush off schoolyard bullying as an experience that grows the individual and that in the long run it is harmless. I argue that this is false, however in this instance the reaction may potentially have had a positive effect on the bully. A classic and physical lesson that actions have consequences. He will learn that just because a child is struggling with a weight issue, enjoys books and his social skills are developing at a slower rate, does not remove him from his common bond in humanity.
The realisation for the bully should be that the bullied child, like him can also engage in violence, can also act and react in situations, and should therefore be given the common respect we should share for all individuals. In addition, it is a video that gives hope to those who are enduring the pain and arduous process of growing up and going through high-school.
If this video allows even one student who is enduring similar behaviour to stand up and say “no, this is not ok” then it is a positive influence. Whether the student reacts with confronting his bully when a situation next arises, or reporting it to someone who can actually effect change, then this video has had a positive influence.
Akin to many, I have also been on both ends of this situation, I have bullied and I have been bullied. Proud of neither of the two, I wish that it had not been part of my childhood. Nevertheless the positive aspect that emerged was the growth from my realisation that both actions were unacceptable.
One should never allow themselves to be bullied and it is important to stand up to that sort of behaviour. On the other hand one should never stoop to the level of denigrating others physically, verbally or in any other way. This video should proudly stand on the internet for all to see and allow people to think about how they interact with others.
Both boys suspensions should be halted and they should be allowed to discuss what they have done. I only hope to see more videos where people stand up for themselves and their right to live in a community without concern for their individuality.
Are you bullied or bully? Do you support this boy or do you have growing fears that such public release and focus on videos or stories such as these will escalate violence in schools? reflect, think and don’t forget to disqus!