Parents of Tyler Clementi Launch Anti-Bullying Initiative

Appearing in a new interview on CBS Sunday Morning, the parents of bullied Rutgers freshman and suicide victim Tyler Clementi opened up about their son’s death, their response to his homosexuality and a new effort they are launching to stop bullying in its tracks. The Tyler Clementi Foundation, in collaboration with the Human Rights Campaign, has launched the #Day1 Campaign in an effort to “reduce harassment and humiliation” brought about by bullying. The campaign is geared toward creating an environment of acceptance and tolerance in academic, professional and social situations and making clear from the first day of school assembly that discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated.

The LGBT community faces a special kind of lifelong bullying threat. Even after they have come out in what purports to be an increasingly tolerant “real world,” they are still vulnerable to workplace and institutional bullying. As hard as it is to endure homophobic slurs and even physical assault in the schoolyard, it could be even harder to have these issues follow you into your collegiate and professional life.

According to data, 82 percent of LGBT youth are bullied due to their sexual orientation and 64 percent feel unsafe at their schools. It doesn’t seem to get any easier once they leave school, either. Between 15 percent and 43 percent of gay people have experienced some form of discrimination and harassment in the workplace. On a positive note, other research indicates that bullying incidents are reduced when schools include LGBT youth in their anti-bullying policies.

It’s become increasingly apparent that bullying is not confined to childhood antics. Everyone has the right to safety and respect at school and in the workplace. If you or your child is being bullied or harassed, no matter what stage of life they’re in, talk to an experienced and qualified attorney immediately.

The lawyers at Davis & Mendelson have a long and successful history advocating, in a court of law, for the safety and dignity of bullied children and adults. Call us today for a free consultation. We will help you get justice and hold your harassers accountable for their actions.