Thanks to The Bully Project for sponsoring my writing. Visit their website to join the movement and learn more.
My son is 20 months old today. For 20 months Nathaniel has been surrounded by love and adoration. He’s been protected, never once placed in harm’s way. I tuck him in every night and kiss his sweet face, knowing that he’s safe.
During the week, Nathaniel goes to an “inclusive” day care center, meaning that the classrooms are integrated with children with and without developmental disabilities. In this program children are recognized as unique individuals. They play together and learn from each other, and get an amazing start of learning to understand and embrace differences rather than to fear or ridicule them.
Like most mothers, I think about what life is going to be like for my son when he’s older. What is he going to be like in elementary school? High school? As an adult? He’s a sensitive and loving kid, not afraid or shy about giving hugs and blowing kisses as he says his goodbyes. He’s a great sharer. He’s already shown signs of being a caregiver. But what happens if he’s faced with people who don’t understand or like him? What if he’s made fun of just because he is who he is?
When I first saw the trailer for Bully, it broke my heart. To see the faces of these kids and parents and hear about the pain they’ve gone through is gut wrenching. But that this movie exists also gives me hope. Hope that people will stand up and take notice of what is going on in schools today and find ways to educate children and stop tolerating bullying behavior. “Kids will be kids” is not an acceptable response.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjjeHeAzZZM?rel=0&w=640&h=360]
I want my son to grow up in a world where he’s celebrated for being the person he is, not ridiculed for it. We all have to do our part to create this accepting space – by educating our own children, taking a stance when it’s called for, supporting organizations that are fighting against bullying, and by spreading the word of films like this one that aim to educate people from all walks of life.
Thankfully, yesterday the MPAA rating controversy came to an end and The Weinstein Co. was awarded a PG-13 rating for Bully after removing three expletives. Don’t even get me started on the rating system. Sigh. Teenagers (and some pre-teens) need to see this film. If my son were old enough, we’d make it a family movie event and go out for ice cream afterwards to discuss it. Are any of you moms with older kids planning to see the movie with them? Are any of you against letting your children watch the film? I’d love to know what you guys think and what your plans are. Let me know in the comment section below, or let’s talk about it more on Facebook!
I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. Find showings in your area for The Bully Project and buy tickets here.