TV Bullies: Glee and the Perpetuation of Bullying - Response

 *There may be spoilers ahead*

I chose to respond to the chapter on Glee since I am currently watching the show. In this chapter, Walton argues that the bullying that takes place in the show is not something that should just be treated as bullying, because homophobia is a systemic issue. In the show, Kurt Hummel, who is played by Chris Colfer is a gay teen living in a small town in Ohio. Kurt is a member of the Glee club and he is comfortable with who he is. Unfortunately, he is bullied (mostly by football players) because of his identity and the passions that he chooses to express. Kurt is bullied so badly, he transfers to a different school. Kurt's bullying is happening because he is gay and the only thing that is done are mediations with his father, and his bullies father, and the bully. This of course leads to nothing so Kurt ultimately transfers. On the other hand, Kurt's step brother, Finn is also bullied because he chooses to be in the Glee club, while Finn is not gay, being in the Glee club results in him also being bullied because Glee is seen as a "gay" extracurricular. 

Walton states that the bullying both teens endure is due to this underlying homophobia, which is true. But in the show, bullying is shown as something you can choose to ignore or stand up to because it will eventually be fine. The real issue as to why teens are already so homophobic are not really addressed. Nor the issue as to why the arts are viewed as "gay" or "feminine" activities. Walton argues that administrators and communities need to do more for the LGBTQ+ community. Homophobia is a deeply ingrained systemic issue that will not go away with simple mediations or telling kids that bullying is bad. The root issue must be addressed in order to create real change. "Boys will be boys" is an excuse that is used too often and it is essentially an excuse for boys to get away with harm they have done. Schools can collaborate with Gay-Straight Alliances, teach students that these words are slurs, and challenge their use of language to enact real change. Walton also brings up that bullying is a term we are starting to use for serious issues such as sexual harassment. It is important that we ensure our students are being taught that this is truly a serious issue. 

Walton also brought up the important point that bullying is an issue that has become profitable. Corporations are selling books to schools, families, students on anxiety from bullying, bullying prevention, and so on. It is important that we make sure we are teaching our kids correct terms, queer history, and topics. If not, we are doing a disservice to our students.