Iowa's Anti-bullying Law
The anti-bullying legislation proposed by Governor Culver during his campaign is finally headed to his desk for a signature. The legislation includes a provision that specifically includes gay and lesbian students. I think this is an essential component of the bill. Everyone who has gone to high school for the last 40 years can remember the words "faggot" and "gay" being hurled at students no matter what their sexual orientation might be. It is much more common for students to come out as middle school or high school students now. I think it is essential that these children be protected as much as possible from the cruel taunts of their fellow students. These bullies are too young to know what harm and permanent damage they may be causing to others. It is up to the adults to protect all children from bullies and this bill is a great start. Some republicans in the Iowa house and senate were opposed to adding the sexual orientation provision, arguing that that group of kids does not need to be specifically protected by name. I think that naming the victims is essential when writing laws dealing with bullying. It gives some power back to the victims of the crime.
posted by Claire @ 2/27/2007 12:09:00 AM
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