The bullying issue, particularly concerning gay students being bullied by others but beyond that to bullying in general, is in the news again. MinnPost and MPR have good coverage, with MPR having posted policy change language readers should review. I think the parent groups against the civil rights of gay young people belong in Pogo's "Jack Acid Society." I regard that kind of person and organization as boat anchors on the ship of state.
Earlier, Tammy Sakry of ABC Newspapers wrote an op-ed demonstrating that bullying can have multiple dimensions, and showing how verbal abuse ought to be regarded as being unacceptable as well as physical abuse and violence. The adage about sticks-and-stones is untrue, particularly for young people forced to be in a school environment where they cannot avoid disreputable contacts with disreputable, nasty, other people.
The issue goes beyond respect for others, although that is a basis from which to start. The issue is one of civil rights - rights and not privileges, or partial entitlements. RIGHTS. CIVIL RIGHTS. What in that phrase is puzzling to those who would deny civil rights to everyone or anyone?
