The Bullying of David Hogg, Activist 

You know, it’s funny.  We talk about young people feeling entitled, irresponsible, and without manners.  Those who will not leave their parents homes.  Expecting their parents to financially support them.  Well, there are many young people who are doing great things these days.  One such person is David Hogg, gun control activist.  He was thrust into the spotlight on February 14, 2018 when a shooter entered his high school and gunned down students and teachers.  A leader was born on that day.  As far as I understand, he is not against people owning guns.  He just wants the process for owning guns to be more responsible. Making sure that people with a criminal history and a history of mental illness are not able to obtain these weapons.  Ever since he expressed his views, he has been harassed and bullied by – full grown adults.  World leaders who should be glad a young person has an opinion about being safe. 

I think it is great a young person has such an interest in having a voice and speaking his mind about his world.  He is concerned about his future and the future of mankind.  You may not agree with him but you must be impressed by his passion.  Instead, he is being publicly bullied by scared adults.  He has been attacked by the media, politicians and now we hear he was swatted.  Calling the police to his house insisting that there was a problem there. Hoping he would be physically hurt by the lying accusation.  I can’t believe these politicians are afraid of one little young man.  Bullying is bullying no matter how you call it.  Why is he being persecuted because certain people don’t agree with him.  Is this the American way?  We pride ourselves in freedom of speech.  Does that only apply when they agree with the majority?  We should encourage young people to freely express their thoughts and open a dialogue between differing opinions.  Isn’t this what is supposed to make America great?  We should encourage young people to speak out against violence.  Children have the right to speak out about their fears and concerns.  Let’s stop bullying our youth for speaking out because we feel uncomfortable about their message.  This is an opportunity for a positive interchange of thought and an education about another point of view.  STOP BULLYING THE CHILDREN!

Sigrid Channer