On April 17, 2009 many students at Arbor View chose to go silent in order to recognize the gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transexuals. There are many students that are gay or lesbian but are scared to tell others in the fear of being taunted about it. Really, the word “gay” is being thrown around these days in a misused manner. Many bullies call the kids they taunt “gay” when they aren’t. But when has something that can hurt someone’s feelings gone too far, and become something more than calling someone stupid?

            Earlier this month Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover, from Springfield, Massachusetts committed suicide after being taunted at school. He was only 11 years old and wasn’t even old enough to be aware of his sexuality. But after bullies repeatedly called Walker-Hoover “Gay”, which he wasn’t, he hung himself. His parents were aware of the mean taunts that Carl received from school and would often talk to school to see if there were any ways to stop it from happening. Sirdeaner L. Walker found Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover hanging from their two-story home from an extension cord on April 6, just a few minutes before she was going to leave to confront the school about the taunts once again.

            Eric Mohat, age 17, of Mentor, Ohio also committed suicide on March 29, 2007 after being taunted at school. He was involved in theater and music. And was often called names because of it. His parents sued the school after his death. Most of the taunting happened in his math class and they blame the school for not protecting their son during the name calling.  One student told Mohat “Why don’t you go home and shoot yourself, no one will miss you.” So he did.

            This just shows that words can often be just as powerful as actions. Before you know it,  it could possibly end someone’s life.