…The bill (Michigan's Anti-Bullying Bill) … lists characteristics, which may be either real or perceived, that sometimes make children subject to bullying by setting them apart from others. The characteristics include race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity; or mental, physical or sensory disability or impairment; or any other distinguishing characteristic.The list is meant to be inclusive, not exclusive. The aim is to make adults in schools aware of the nature of bullying and the circumstances that often are associated with it.
That fact seems to have been lost on some lawmakers. The bill, which was approved by the House, is in jeopardy in the Senate. The contention is that it would cause Michigan law to formally recognize homosexual behavior and that it would give gays special protection.
It is difficult to understand how the point could have been missed so badly. The law would require schools to try to prevent bullying that occurs for any reason, and it lists some of the common ones — also noting that the perception, not just the reality, of characteristics can set children apart from the mainstream and become the impetus for bullying.
The proposed law is meant to educate and protect, not stir an unseemly and ill-conceived debate. We hope the opponents, who have singled out language they find objectionable for all the wrong reasons, will see the error of their ways and find a way to support this bill.
