Bullying and Homophobia

We are going to learn about two web-based crusades aimed at fighting bullying and homophobia.

Look at the pictures of the following people.

What do you think their lives would be like growing up in your country?

What kinds of social challenges would they face? Would they be bullied? Why or why not?

prototypes of bullied people

Bullying

Bullying is one of the reasons of isolation and suicide.

Discuss with a group whether or not you agree with the following statements.

Support your opinions with reasons and examples:

  • Homophobic bullying is a large problem in my country's society.
  • Homophobia does not exist in Canada or the US.
  • Homophobia is not relevant to straight members of society.
  • Bullying is more of a problem for people when they are young.
  • Suicide is an all-too-common result of bullying in my country's society.
  • Prominent members of society such as well-known politicians, actors, musicians, etc. have a lot to lose by speaking out against homophobia.

Exercise

Work with a partner and brainstorm derogatory terms people use in bullying.

Think about the different kinds of people and what they are called when bullied.

Learn about International Rugby Star Ben Cohen's newly-formed foundation set to stand up against bullying in society.

Watch the video, check out the website, then answer the questions in Exercise #1.

Ben Cohen foundation

Ben Cohen formed a foundation to fight bullying.

The It Gets Better Project is gaining momentum.

Exercise

What is it? Who is participating? What are the reasons for such a project? Check out the website, the following videos, and then answer the questions in Exercise #2.

Google Chrome: It Gets Better

Obama: It Gets Better

Obama: It Gets Better

Google Employees: It Gets Better

Google Employees: It Gets Better

Gay Cop, Gay Marine: It Gets Better

Apple Employees: It Gets Better

Apple Employees: It Gets Better

Facebook Employees: It Gets Better

Facebook Employees: It Gets Better

Discuss the following questions with a partner or group:

  • Can you see sports celebrities in your country speaking out against bullying and homophobia? Has it already happened? Why or why not? What about politicians?
  • Do you see homophobia as a problem in your country's society? Is it different than in North American society?
  • Are you familiar with any other Internet movements like the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation or Dan Savage's It Gets Better?
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